The Southport Sharks are pleased to announce their VFL Leadership Group for 2024.
This year, Jacob Dawson and Brayden Crossley will co-captain the Southport Sharks VFL team.
For Dawson, who has won the last three Doc Mackenzie Medals (Southport Sharks Best & Fairests), it will be his third year as co-captain.
Crossley, who was vice-captain last year, has been elevated to co-captain after Mike Manteit stepped down from the role at the end of the 2023 season.
In 2024, the Sharks will have three vice-captains – Mackenzie Willis, Zac Foot and Matt Shannon.
It will be Willis’ third year as a vice-captain at the Sharks, whilst for Foot and Shannon, it will be their first time.
Foot was in the leadership group last year, but for Shannon, who is the former Carlton VFL Captain, it is his first time in the leadership group.
Southport VFL Coach Steve Daniel said, “I think we have assembled a terrific leadership group for this season.”
“I am thrilled to see Brayden given the opportunity to captain this club. His Dad is a hall of famer at Southport, so I know it means a lot to him.”
“Last year, Brayden won the Wally Fankhauser Trophy (awarded to the player who best represents the spirit of the Southport Sharks), so I know he will lead the club well this year.”
“I think Jacob and Brayden will make a great co-captain combination; they are great mates and are driven to get this football club back up the ladder.”
“It is also great to see Mackenzie and Zac remain in our leadership group despite both of them suffering serious injuries last year and missing a large chunk of the year. It is a testament to their character and resilience.”
“Then, to add someone with Matt Shannon’s experience to our leadership group as a vice-captain is outstanding.”
Southport’s VFL season starts against Port Melbourne on March 23 at 12:05pm at Fankhauser Reserve.
Photo: (Left to Right) – Mackenzie Willis (Vice-Captain), Jacob Dawson (Co-Captain), Brayden Crossley (Co-Captain), Zac Foot (Vice-Captain), Matt Shannon (Vice-Captain)