Carlton Football Club has finalised its on-field leadership structure for 2017, with captain Marc Murphy to again steer a seven-man leadership group.
Veteran defender Kade Simpson has been named vice-captain for the third year overall, while 30-year-old Dennis Armfield comes into the group for the first time since his debut in 2008 for Carlton.
Patrick Cripps, Sam Docherty, Bryce Gibbs and Ed Curnow round out the Blues’ leadership group, who were elected by their peers on Tuesday.
Watch Carlton's 2017 leadership group announcement
Senior coach Brendon Bolton said the leadership group would continue to drive high standards for the Blues’ young playing list.
The Blues' 2017 leadership group (left to right): Dennis Armfield, Bryce Gibbs, Sam Docherty, captain Marc Murphy, vice-captain Kade Simpson, Ed Curnow and Patrick Cripps. (Photo: Carlton Media)
“In 2016, we set about building leadership density across our list. This year, we are sticking to the roadmap and ensuring there is a consistent level of leadership across the board,” Bolton said.
“With only one change to our leadership group for 2017, we are building on the foundations that were set last season. Dennis is a very influential member of our playing group and on the clear vote from his teammates, comes into the spot vacated by Andrew Walker.
“Marc continues to be a tremendous leader for our club and across the past 12 months in particular, has played a vital role in shaping and reinforcing our values and behaviours, particularly working closely with the younger players.
“Kade, Bryce, Patrick, Sam and Ed are already established leaders at our football club, all finishing in the top five of our Best and Fairest count in 2016 which is a clear indication of them all leading from the front on field too.
“We know this leadership group will continue to drive high standards for our young playing group as we continue to evolve and grow as a team in 2017.”
The Blues will host their annual Family Day this Saturday 11 February on the Northern Lawn of Princes Park from 1:30pm, and kick off their JLT Community Series campaign on Saturday 25 February against Melbourne at Casey Fields.
