Waite was elected by his peers this week. He joins Chris Judd, Michael Jamison, Marc Murphy, Bryce Gibbs, Kade Simpson, Andrew Carrazzo and Jordan Russell, who were all members of the leadership group in 2011, in the eight man leadership group for the upcoming season.
“It is a real honour, especially as it is selected by your peers,” Jarrad said after the announcement at Visy Park.
“I have worked hard on my leadership skills in the last couple of years as part of the Leading Teams program and in particular with John Barker (Carlton Assistant Coach). I know this has been beneficial and it is pleasing that this has been recognised by the players,” added Jarrad.
.jpg)
The inclusion of Waite in the leadership group ensures there is at least one player from each area of the ground in the group in 2012.
“We had talked about a forward being in the leadership group and we (the forwards) have all taken on more responsibility in terms of providing more leadership on the ground. While nothing will change in this area it is great that a forward is part of the official leadership group.
“I am looking forward to playing my part and believe it is a sign of my maturity as a player, both on and off the field,” Waite said.
In further good news Waite confirmed he expects to play two NAB Cup matches and be available for round one of the season. He said he is feeling great, training well and that his program is a planned build up for the 2012 season.
“I am ensuring I am 100 percent right before joining in all the training. In previous years I have probably been a little too eager to get back into it and this resulted in my body not coping with the whole season. I expect February will be a big month for me on the training track.”
Jarrad will join his team-mates in Lygon Street on Tuesday for a special promotion in the famous Carlton strip. The Carlton players will be in Lygon Street to meet supporters and the retailers between 1:00pm and 2:00pm this Tuesday, January 31st.
