The Essendon Football Club has named Zach Merrett as its new Captain, following Dyson Heppell’s recent decision to step down from the role. Merrett, who has played 184 games with the Bombers, becomes the 41st Captain in the club’s history.
Talented defender Andrew McGrath has been named Vice-Captain. Merrett joined the Essendon team in the 2013 NAB AFL National Draft and has become a key player in the club’s midfield. Over his nine seasons with Essendon, he has won three Crichton Medals and has been named to the All-Australian team twice.
Merrett served as Vice-Captain last season and has held leadership positions at the club since 2016. During his time at Essendon, he has demonstrated his passion, determination, and resilience, making him the perfect choice to lead the team forward.
Essendon conducted a leadership process under new Senior Coach Brad Scott, which provided players with the opportunity to identify the values and qualities they want in their leaders. After a vote by the squad and football staff, Merrett and McGrath were ratified by the Essendon Board.
Merrett is honoured to be named the new Captain of Essendon and is ready for the challenge of leading the team. He says he is grateful for the opportunity and is looking forward to making Essendon’s members and supporters proud.
Essendon have said they will continue to add to their leadership program, but for this season, Merrett and McGrath will be the only official leaders. Merrett will lead the team in its first practice game against the Gold Coast SUNS on February 24th.
