Geelong have appointed Patrick Dangerfield as their new captain for the 2023 season, with defender Tom Stewart taking on the vice-captain role in what will be a two-man leadership group for the Cats.
The duo were Joel Selwood's right-hand men in their premiership-winning 2022 campaign, where the Cats won the flag in Selwood's final game as skipper.
Both Dangerfield and Stewart were seen as the standout options to succeed the retired Selwood, with the former confirmed as Geelong's 54th captain on Saturday night.
Speaking on the honour, Dangerfield said he'll cherish the opportunity to lead Geelong in their premiership defence.
“I love walking into this football club every day," he said in a club statement.
"We have fun and we work hard. Playing for the Cats has been everything I dreamed it would be since I was a little kid. To continue to represent Geelong, and the players, the Club, and the community who make it great – many of whom I've aspired to be like my whole life – is an honour.
“I'm incredibly lucky to be part of a group of players who push each other to great heights and support each other in all things. Together as one in hoops we're excited to see where the next chapter in our journey takes us.”
Dangerfield's appointment sees him continue to hold down a leadership role at Kardinia Park since 2017 - his second year at the club.
Stewart will hold onto the vice-captaincy role for the year ahead after sharing it with Dangerfield in 2022.
2023 will be Stewart's sixth as a leadership group member and second as a deputy to Geelong's captain.
“Being in this role over the last five years is something that I've really treasured, and to continually grow and develop in this capacity is something that I'm really proud of,” Stewart said.
“We've got that right balance of knowing exactly what we want and how to get it, but also having that thirst and that drive to continue to grow and develop. We know what we want to achieve. It's going to take a hell of a lot of work, but we're really excited for what's ahead.”
Dangerfield will officially lead the Cats as captain in his first AFL game on Friday, March 17 against Collingwood at the MCG.
