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Melbourne leadership team

By Kim Hagdorn
18 January 2013 03:09PM EST

TROUBLED Melbourne Demons have named a nine-man leadership team for the approaching AFL season.

Already under intense scrutiny at the height of a thorough AFL investigation into tanking claims three years ago, the Demons confirmed co-captaincy for Jack Trengove and Jack Grimes.

Collingwood 2010 premiership utility and new Demons recruit Chris Dawes is the biggest surprise as an official member of the lengthy leadership team.

Geelong import Shannon Byrnes is also a new leader with his adopted outfit.

Tough midfielder and reigning club champion Nathan Jones has also won an elevation and will be vice-captain.

Other confirmed members of the Demons leadership group are Mitch Clark, James Frawley and Colin Garland.

Demons senior coach Mark Neeld said his on-field leadership team had been put together through a selection process since the end of last season when the struggling unit won just four games.

“This group is a sign of the development we’ve seen in our players over the past year," Neeld said.

"The work that has been done by Neil Craig and Jade Rawlings particularly in this area has been outstanding, and has resulted in a large number of players vying for a position in the group.

“Of the three new players to the group, Jordie McKenzie continues his great story, coming from the rookie List to where he is now.

"Jordie’s work ethic, competiveness and attention to detail have earned him this position.

“We are also pleased at the impact of Shannon Byrnes and Chris Dawes since their arrival.

"Their leadership and experience was one of the reasons we pursued them during the Free Agency and Trade periods.

“Both Jack Grimes and Jack Trengove experienced a challenging year in 2012, but in their first year as captains, we were very happy with their development and have full confidence that this will continue in 2013.

“Nathan Jones has been recognised for his contributions both on and off the field last season, and he, along with the others’ leadership, will provide great support for our captains.

“We would also like to acknowledge the work done by the retired Clint Bartram and Mark Jamar, who are not official members of the leadership group for 2013."

Neeld said that selection of the Demons leadership group involved players, coaches and staff.

The players were rated in the 10 most important categories of leadership, which included their character, competence and competitiveness.

These ratings formed the basis of the selection of the senior leadership group.
 

 

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