Horwill abdicates as Slipper steps up

 

Slipper will be supported in the role by two new vice-captains in Reds and Wallabies lock Rob Simmons and recent signing Karmichael Hunt.

 

Slipper takes over the role with the blessing of incumbent captain Horwill, who after a number of discussions agreed the best long-term outcome for the future success of the Reds was to step down and allow the growth of the leadership within the team.

 

"After a number of extensive conversations with Richard [Graham – Reds' head coach], myself, Chairman Rod McCall and CEO Jim Carmichael we collectively made the decision that the best thing for the Reds moving forward would be for me to step down as captain and promote James Slipper as the new captain," the lock said at the captaincy announcement.

"I was reluctant to it at first, but after thinking about it and giving more time about the best way to transition the leadership onwards, we agreed that I step down and James [Slipper] takes over." 

 

Slipper was vice-captain of the Wallabies throughout the 2014 Test season and said he was honoured to be given the title of Reds skipper.

 

“I’m incredibly humbled by this decision. I take great pride in playing for Queensland, so to be named captain is a great honour,” Slipper said.

 

“James [Horwill] has been a great captain and I know he will be a great mentor to me in my first season as skipper of the Reds. 

 

"He gives everything for Queensland and he deserves to go out on the right note – so I’ll do everything I can to make sure that happens.”

 

Queensland CEO Jim Carmichael said: “This is a very deliberate and considered decision to ensure the best outcomes for the Reds and Queensland in 2015 and beyond.

 

“James [Horwill] has been a wonderful captain for Queensland and we all concluded it is important he is allowed to deliver the best he can for the Reds during his last season.

 

"It is also important he helps to mentor and transition James Slipper and his vice-captains as they grow into their roles.

“Queensland has been very public that the Reds will not shy away from expectations. Everything we have done and continue to do in the lead up to the 2015 season has shown a clear intent to continually evolve and be accountable.”

 

Head coach Richard Graham commended Horwill for his commitment to the club as it prepared to usher in a new generation of leaders.

 

“Everyone knows James Horwill is a passionate Queenslander who plays with an incredible amount of pride,” Graham said.

 

"It is important that he helps with this transition and I have no doubts he will provide a wealth of support to James Slipper, who has proven with his actions both on and off the field he will be a strong leader for this team.

 

“In appointing two new vice-captains, we are continuing to expand the leadership base within our group.

 

"Rob [Simmons] understands the strategic side of the game well and deserves an opportunity to be part of the leadership group. Having an official title will provide some more formal opportunities for him to lead within the team.

“While Karmichael is new to the team, he has shown throughout his career and during Reds pre-season that his standards and work ethic will drive the group to higher expectations.

 

“As with any team, it is important that we continue to provide opportunities for players to grow – and that includes in their ability to lead.

 

“All of these guys have been appointed because of what I believe they can bring to the leadership role, but they are by no means the only leaders within our group.

 

“We are also fortunate to have four players in our squad who have had the honour of representing Queensland more than 100 times in their careers.

 

"Quade Cooper, Will Genia, Greg Holmes and James Horwill, all very experienced players, have held leadership roles within the Reds at various times.

 

"They are already leaders within this group so they don’t need to carry a formal title.

 

Horwill added that he is looking to do what is best for the team, regardless of what personal sacrifices he needs to make.

 

“While I love captaining Queensland, I think it’s the best thing for the team to allow the leaders within the group to grow," the former captain said.

 

"All the players who have been selected have my 100 percent support and I’m excited to see what they can do not only this season, but for many years to come.