The Sydney Swans have named Josh Kennedy to take over as captain from Jarrad McVeigh and Kieren Jack for 2017.
McVeigh and Jack led the Swans into a grand final but fell short to the Western Bulldogs by 22 points. Kennedy has had a stellar season and McVeigh and Jack thought it was right to step aside.
Jack said in a release that “Jarrad and I have been incredibly proud to captain our football club and we feel the timing is right to reciprocate the opportunity given to us.”
“We will continue to provide guidance and leadership to the young leaders coming through our ranks to help them learn and grow.
A big thanks to our co-captains for their great service as leaders over the last few seasons. #ProudlySydney pic.twitter.com/CHvqU9iMb9
— Sydney Swans (@sydneyswans) December 8, 2016
Kennedy finished 2016 with his third Bob Skilton Medal, third All-Australian guernsey, the Gary Ayers Award as the AFL’s best player in the finals series, and the Paul Roos Award as the Club’s best finals player.
Swans coach John Longmire admired his commitment this season and thought Kennedy deserved the new responsibility.
“Josh is a highly-valued member of our leadership group who consistently sets high standards every week and is a significant driver of our team’s performance,” Longmire said.
“There’s no doubt that his teammates feel his presence when they run onto the field with him – he’s got a rare ability to lift those around him.
“As captain, we know Josh will do a terrific job and will enjoy tremendous support from our other leaders, including Kieren and Jarrad, who have been outstanding in their roles.
Longmire named three vice-captains to help out Kennedy which were: Dan Hannebery, Luke Parker and Dane Rampe.
The pre-season matches begin on February 16. – Jesse Mullens
Photo of Josh Kennedy from the Sydney Swans Twitter feed.
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