Hawthorn appoint James Sicily as captain for 2023
James Sicily will captain Hawthorn in 2023.
The main defense has been linked with the role for a long time since Ben McEvoy retired last year.
Sicily stepped in as skipper in McEvoy’s absence in 2022 but are now the club’s official leader.
The 28-year-old will become the Hawks’ 38th captain and will be joined by Luke Bruest and Dylan Moore as vice-captains.
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Sam Frost, Jarman Impey and Mitch Lewis will complete a six-man lead group that will take the group forward in 2023.
“I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to lead this team,” said Sicily.
“It’s a huge responsibility but I’m up for the challenge and I can’t wait to lead this group of players.
“To be supported by the players and the club is a very special feeling.
“First and foremost, this club has put so much effort, love and time into me as a person to the point where I feel very comfortable with the opportunity to run this club and I feel in the role of teammates , coaches and family so supports and friends.
“The entire playing group is keen to take our game to a new level in 2023 and this has been reflected in the energy and intensity on the practice track this preseason so far, so I can’t wait to get started in a month’s time.”
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Sicily joined the Hawks as a 56th pick in 2013 but has played 115 games as a forward and defenseman.
In 2022, Western Jets’ product added a Peter Crimmins medal to its name and was called stiff to miss an all-Australian selection.
Hawthorn CEO Justin Reeves paid tribute to Sicily and his newfound role within the club.
“The club is delighted to welcome James Sicily as captain of the Hawks to a respected group of Hawthorn people,” Reeves said.
“The respect James has built with his team-mates, coaches and our wider Hawthorn family gives us great confidence that he is the right person to lead this club into its exciting future.
“He has a great love and passion for the game and, just as importantly, for Hawthorn Football Club and I am delighted that he will make his mark with this honor.”
Reeves also spoke about the rest of the leading group and what they add to the Hawks.
“Luke’s acceptance as vice-captain is a testament to his natural leadership skills, loyalty and commitment to this club during his 14 seasons at Hawthorn,” said the CEO.
“He has become a real role model for our young group and I know he feels responsible for instilling Premiership-level standards and values into the attitude of this group.
“Dylan is the ultimate teammate and the ideal third in this captaincy structure.
“He has an incredible hunger for hard work and is also one of the most respected members of our Hawthorn community.
“Together with Jarman, Mitch and Sam, we know these men will set the standard in 2023.”
Hawthorn’s 2023 season begins on March 19 at the MCG with a first-round match against arch-rivals Essendon.