By Lance Jenkinson
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
That was the thinking for Werribee players when they voted on the 2019 captaincy for the Victorian Football League club.
Michael Sodomaco has been re-appointed for a fifth season as skipper.
He has proven his leadership qualities time and again.
The 27-year-old has done so while leading the way with his outstanding play on the field, whether it be in a midfield role or as a small defender.
The captaincy endorsement of his peers is something that Sodomaco values greatly.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to do it for a few years, but I think this is actually the first time I’ve been voted in by the playing group specifically,” he said.
“It’s always nice to get a player-driven accolade because, at the end of the day, they’re your mates and the blokes you’re playing with.”
Three-time Bruce Montgomery Trophy winner Matt Hanson will take on the vice-captaincy.
Sodomaco is thrilled to have Hanson by his side as vice captain.
“Matty is a terrific footballer, but even more so a really terrific team person,” Sodomaco said.
“He’s going to slot into [the vice-captaincy] really seamlessly.
“I’m hoping I can impart a bit of wisdom and a bit of knowledge and help him take the next step with his leadership.”
Nick Coughlan, Matthew Munro, Dom Brew and Timm House will round out the leadership group.
House will tackle his leadership role with the fresh insight of an outsider’s perspective.
He arrived at Werribee in the off season after time spent in Geelong’s system in the AFL.
“Timm has essentially played under the likes of [Geelong stars] Joel Selwood and Paddy Dangerfield, so I’m looking forward to picking his brain a bit and learning a few things, as I’m sure he’ll have some new ideas,” Sodomaco said.
Werribee will open the season under lights against North Melbourne at Avalon Airport Oval from 7pm on Saturday.
It will be Mark Williams’ first official game in charge as coach of Werribee.
As a coach, he led Port Adelaide Power to its first AFL premiership in 2004. More recently, Williams has worked as an assistant coach with GWS Giants and Richmond.
Star onballer Michael Barlow will be making his return to Werribee after an impressive career at AFL level with Fremantle and Gold Coast Suns.
The 31-year-old is moving into a new phase of his career as a playing assistant coach.
