Dyson Heppell to captain Essendon again in 2019, leading smaller leadership group
Essendon has taken a fresh approach to its leadership group this year, following the lead of other clubs and trimming two experienced stars.
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Essendon has taken a fresh approach to its leadership group this year, following the lead of other clubs and trimming two experienced stars.
Dyson Heppell has retained the captaincy for a third-straight season in a move that came as no surprise, but the wider leadership group has been cut from seven players to five.
Cale Hooker, who was one of two vice-captains last year, has been dropped from the group along with fellow defender Michael Hurley.
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Midfielder Zach Merrett is now the sole vice-captain, while David Myers, Joe Daniher and Orazio Fantasia have retained their spots in the leadership group.
Bombers coach John Worsfold said after a robust consultation process it was determined a streamlined leadership group was the best approach.
“Feedback from our playing group was overwhelmingly in support of Dyson being named as captain for a third straight year,” Worsfold said.
“They feel strongly aligned with his leadership qualities and values and this was consistent throughout this process.
“We feel all five men bring strong and diverse qualities that will ensure the growth of the playing group across a number of values and we hope this resonates on-field too.”
Worsfold said despite Hurley and Hooker being dropped from the group, the club still valued their leadership and that of other players.
“With their experience and knowledge of our game, they will continue to support the leadership group and the development of our younger players,” he said.
“The structure of the leadership group has been streamlined this season, however we have a strong focus on the entire group more broadly to own their personal leadership capacities and compete week-in and week-out.”
Heppell, who turns 27 in May, averaged 26.8 disposals and 4.9 clearances last year to finish second in the club’s best-and-fairest behind Devon Smith.
The Bombers meet Carlton in their opening pre-season game on February 28.
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