Brisbane Lions Announce Co-Captains for 2026 Season
Josh Dunkley and Hugh McCluggage have been appointed as co-captains for the Brisbane Lions for the 2026 season, joining existing co-captain Harris Andrews. This significant leadership change follows Lachie Neale's decision last month to step down from the role after three seasons.
The club's new eight-man leadership group also includes Cam Rayner, Jasper Fletcher, Jarrod Berry, Will Ashcroft, and Oscar Allen.
Dunkley's promotion comes after three seasons with Brisbane, having transferred from the Western Bulldogs in late 2022. McCluggage, a rising star, received his first All-Australian blazer in the 2025 season. Both players demonstrated their leadership capabilities by serving as co-vice captains last season.
Former Carlton Player Invited to Western Bulldogs Training
Will White, a former Carlton player, has received an invitation to train with the Western Bulldogs under Supplementary Selection Period (SSP) rules. Will Lewis also received a training invitation to join the club.
These invitations follow the recent retirement of James Harmes.
White played 14 games for Carlton last season and was actively training for a spot on the club's list until recently, when he was replaced by Wade Derksen.
EJ Whitten Medal Awarded
Lachie Ash was awarded the EJ Whitten Medal for best on ground in Saturday night’s Origin match.
Nick Daicos finished as runner-up after an outstanding performance, recording 38 disposals, 13 score involvements, and a goal, including 13 touches in the fourth quarter. The prestigious award was determined by coaches' votes.
St Kilda Names Co-Captains for Upcoming Season
St Kilda has appointed Jack Sinclair and Cal Wilkie as co-captains for the upcoming season. They will be supported by a six-man leadership group, which includes Mason Wood and first-time leaders Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Marcus Windhager, and Mitch Owens.
This announcement follows the departure of former skipper Jack Steele, who moved to Melbourne after five years as captain.
Both Sinclair and Wilkie previously served as vice-captains, demonstrating their readiness for the top leadership roles.
Sinclair, 31, brings extensive experience with 210 games played and participation in all 23 games last season, averaging an impressive 27.0 disposals. Wilkie, entering his eighth season, has 155 games of experience and has played 22 or more senior games in six of his seven seasons.
St Kilda's footy boss, Lenny Hayes, expressed confidence in the new leaders, stating that Sinclair and Wilkie have earned the trust of the playing group, highlighting their consistency, resilience, and team-first approach. The Saints are scheduled to begin their season against Collingwood on Sunday, March 8.