Rebels reveal their new captain
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Melbourne Rebels have announced star fullback Dane Haylett-Petty as captain for the 2019 Super Rugby season.
As he begins his second year as a Rebel and eleventh season as a professional player, Haylett-Petty says he feels honoured being selected as the captain in what promises to be an exciting year for the Melbourne side.
“I’m thrilled about having the opportunity to lead the team for the 2019 season,” Haylett-Petty said.
“I loved my first year here in Melbourne and I can feel we are building something special with the group we have.”
Despite having his first season in the role, Haylett-Petty took the opportunity to recognise the senior players supporting him.
“We have a great leadership group here. The standards and intensity that those guys have been bringing to pre-season has really influenced the behaviours of the entire playing group,” he said.
“This role is coming at a really exciting time for the team; the vibe around the clubhouse is incredible at the moment. It feels like we’re on the cusp of something special.
“We know there’s a lot of hard work ahead of us though, but we’re excited to get our season started.”
Melbourne Rebels head coach David Wessels gave a glowing endorsement for his new skipper.
“Dane was an obvious choice as a captain. Everyone here at the Rebels really values his leadership abilities and I think he will make a great skipper for our side,” Wessels said.
“He’s a great organiser in our backline and is a well-spoken individual, so any message he delivers will be greatly received by the playing group.
“I’m conscious of the fact that we have quite a lot of players with captaincy experience, both at Super Rugby and international level.
“That’s a real positive for us; having plenty of leaders who can drive change within the organisation. Dane is wise enough to lean on those guys for advice when he sees fit.”
We’ve confirmed our squad for the 2019 Super Rugby season. Get excited Rebels fans!#WeAreRugby #HelloMelbourne pic.twitter.com/OQx6C257TS
— Melbourne Rebels (@MelbourneRebels) February 8, 2019
