Hawthorn forward Jack Gunston says he’s up for captaining the side if Luke Hodge decides to hand over the reins.
Hodge, who led the Hawks to three consecutive flags from 2013 to 2015, has been captain for six years.
And his leadership is likely to be needed more than ever next season, given the Hawks’ surprise decision to trade star veterans Sam Mitchell and Jordan Lewis.
But at 32, Hodge is no certainty to play beyond next season, and Gunston believes it would be invaluable for his replacement to have a crack at the captaincy while Hodge is still around to provide guidance.
“I think if Hodgey wants it, he’ll go around again,” Gunston said on Monday.
“And why not? We’ve got one of the greatest captains probably ever to play the game and he’s an absolute warrior.
“But if he wants to hand it over, I’m sure there’s numerous guys that are ready to take over and it’d be great to be able to do it next to Hodgey while he’s still here.”
Hodge is yet to indicate whether he wants to retain the role but either way, and the Hawks are expected to vote on the captaincy in early 2017.
Gunston, who is approaching his sixth season with the Hawks after launching his AFL career at Adelaide, says he would be willing to throw his hat in the ring.
“I’d put my hand up,” he said.
“I don’t mind the leading side of things. I guess I stepped up a little bit over the last year, in the forward line and around the group.
“There are numerous guys that are already in the leadership group that are probably ready to go. I’m still sort of learning the ropes so we’ll wait and see.”
While Mitchell and Lewis have departed, the remaining leadership group members – Josh Gibson, Isaac Smith and Jarryd Roughead – remain, although there are question marks about Roughead’s future as he continues his cancer battle.
Lewis had been considered the most likely to replace Hodge as captain before joining Melbourne during the trade period.
One of Hawthorn’s most durable recruits, 25-year-old Gunston has played 113 games and booting 251 goals since moving from the Crows at the end of 2011.
Penster
Roar Guru
It would also be a lot of pressure for a bloke who hasn't played or trained for the better part of a year due to PCL and cancner, and I have never heard him or Cyril mentioned in captain discussions - leadership group yes, but not captaincy. The cancer has gone and we pray it remains gone.
Don Freo
Guest
Why wouldn't it be Roughy? That has to be inspiring.
Wilson
Roar Guru
aqree Shiels is the best going for the Hawks and I like him in that role.
Paul D
Roar Guru
I've also heard Liam Shiels - I think it was Dunstall during On the Couch a few years back when they were discussing who the Hawks would consider trading one off season, he said Shiels wouldn't be traded and thought he would be a future captain of the club. Not a bad endorsement as they go.
Birdman
Guest
that one's getting a bit stale, Andy.
Bruce
Guest
Yep good point I have heard Liam Shiels name mentioned around the captaincy, and he'd probably do a good job. Gunston a little too soft and fond of himself for mine....but that's just an opinion.
Birdman
Guest
IMO Liam Shiels would be much more likely than either of those two, Bruce - Gunston would still be my pick.
Birdman
Guest
fair call Tim - would still have the other 2 ahead on sheer footballing ability.
Tim Holt
Roar Guru
Don Scott was the embodiment of 'tough and uncompromising'
Bruce
Guest
It will be interesting to see who they appoint when Hodge steps down or is pushed out. My money would be on Birchall or Stratton.
Birdman
Guest
Agreed - Only Matthews in the same class for tough and uncompromising Hawks captains
Nineteen
Guest
Not sure if we have anyone within our ranks that promotes a bit of fear in the opposition. Going to miss Hodgey when he steps down.
Birdman
Guest
Happy for Gunners to be handed the captaincy if Hodgey decides to step down.