West Coast will be under new leadership in season 2024 after the rebuilding club announced on Wednesday that key forward Oscar Allen and rebounding defender Liam Duggan would act as co-captains going forward.
The off-season departure of previous skipper Luke Shuey had left to role of leading the Eagles open, and after bringing several key youngsters in across the course of the draft and trade periods, including vaunted No.1 pick Harley Reid, 2024 will be the start of a new era at Lathlain.
The talented pairing have now become just the second set of co-captains in the Eagles' 37-year history, following in the footsteps of Dean Kemp and Ben Cousins who shared the duties throughout 2001.
Speaking by way of an official club statement, West Coast's GM of Football, Gavin Bell, claimed that both Allen and Duggan were primed to steer the club forward from its messy two-year nadir.
“Being captain of a big club like the West Coast Eagles carries a significant level of responsibility,” said Gavin Bell, General Manager Football, today.
“The sentiment from the range of people, including their peers, was that little separated them.
“We also believe they complement each other with their different skill sets and styles so it makes sense for them to work alongside each other.”
Bell also confirmed that one-time club champion Tom Barrass would act as the Eagles' sole vice-captain next season.
Contracted until the cessation of 2026, Barrass reinforced his future out West, turning down reportedly strong interest to join Sydney ahead of the trade period.
“In addition, Tom Barrass, who was a vice-captain alongside Jeremy McGovern, will remain solely in that capacity in 2024 as Jeremy takes a step back to focus on his own game. While he will not have a formal role we expect he will continue to lead strongly going forward,” Bell stated.
“'TB' is a man who cares deeply about his teammates and has been a strong leader and connector within the group for a number of years. He will continue to play a key role in that respect.”
