Dyson Heppell, the Essendon Football Club captain for the past six seasons, has announced that he will be stepping down from his role as the club’s leader. Heppell, who is 30 years old, was drafted to the Bombers in 2010, was appointed as the vice-captain in 2016 and then as club captain in 2017.
Heppell shared his thoughts about his decision to step down as captain: “As a young kid, playing AFL was a dream, and playing for the club I supported was even more special. Becoming the captain of that club was a huge privilege. Over the past six years, I had enormous pride and respect for my role as captain. Leadership can be a tough task, but it has given me so much joy and has played a big part in my growth as a person, player, and teammate. I am grateful to the players, coaches, staff, and board members who supported me over the years, as well as our fans and members.”
The President of the club, Dave Barham, thanked Heppell for his contribution over the past six years: “Dyson Heppell is the ultimate team player. He has always put the club and the team first, and this decision is just another example of that. On behalf of all supporters, we thank you for your contribution as captain of our club.”
Brad Scott, the senior coach, also commended Heppell’s selfless decision to step down: “He has led the club through a difficult time in its long and proud history and has done so with great commitment. On behalf of the coaching staff and his fellow players, I thank him for his great service, and I look forward to working with him as an ongoing valuable contributor to the senior playing group.”
The Essendon Football Club will announce its new captain and leadership group in the coming week.
