After five years as Carlton Captain, Chris Judd has announced he will relinquish the role in 2013. 

The dual Brownlow medallist told CFC TV it was the right time to step down as the Club’s leader.

“It has been a tremendous privilege to Captain this footy club and I have thoroughly enjoyed the past five years,” Chris said.

“However I have decided I want to step down and hand the job over to someone else and with a new coach it seemed like the right time for a fresh start at the Club.”

Chris will not be a member of the Club’s 2013 leadership group and said although it was a tough decision, he was looking forward to making football his primary focus.

“At this stage of my career, I am looking forward to getting back to enjoying the essence of footy and not having as much responsibility around the Club as I have had in previous years,” he said.

“I certainly won’t be pushing any less hard to bring success and will still have an active role, however it just won’t be in an official leadership capacity.”

Carlton’s General Manager of Football Operations Andrew McKay acknowledged Chris’ contribution.

“Chris has been outstanding in his role as Captain and we respect his decision to step down,” he said.

“His discipline and professionalism around the Club has really set a benchmark for all players to adhere too and although he won’t officially be a leader anymore, we expect his influence to continue.”

Carlton does not expect to name its new Captain until late February, 2013.