Collingwood defender Darcy Moore has been announced as the club's captain for 2023 and beyond.
Following Scott Pendlebury's decision to step-down as leader in December after 206 games and nine seasons, the Pies were in search of who would take charge next.
Moore - who is the son of former Collingwood captain Peter - presented himself as a viable option, alongside teammates Taylor Adams, Jeremy Howe and Brayden Maynard, rounding out the leadership group.
Peter captained the club in 1981 and 1982, with his son following in his footsteps.
The 27-year-old expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity given and is excited by the chance to lead the Pies.
Lifelong member of the Magpie Army, turns leader of the Magpie Army.
— Collingwood FC (@CollingwoodFC) February 1, 2023
Darcy Moore is our Club's 48th VFL/AFL Captain 👨✈️ pic.twitter.com/EQSNV0AU8K
“It is truly an incredible honour to be given the opportunity to lead this team,” Moore said.
“The Collingwood captaincy is significant in its own right but it also holds another layer of significance for my family and I. To follow my father’s journey as Captain of the Collingwood Football Club at almost the same stage in his football journey is very special.
“There’s no shortage of strong and up-and-coming leaders in our group, and I look forward to working closely with the individuals that surround me to ensure we all continue to develop as leaders. I am fortunate to be part of a team and wider Club that features so many selfless and determined individuals.”
Moore joins the long list of Collingwood greats as captain and becomes the 48th in the club's rich and proud history that includes Nathan Buckley and Tony Shaw.
GM of Football Graham Wright congratulated all four players on their new appointments.
“We congratulate Darcy on being appointed Captain and also Taylor, Jeremy and Brayden on their appointments to the leadership group,” Wright said.
“All four players display a strong alignment to the Club values as well as attributes that will nurture, mentor and inspire the team.
“This process has confirmed there is no shortage of upcoming leaders in our group. We are fortunate to have a number of players who will play a role in leading this team even if they don’t hold a formal leadership title.”
The captain-selection process at Collingwood is player led. It takes into account the values and qualities displayed both on and off the field, with the squad and key senior staff nominating on who they think should lead the team.
Once all the voting has been determined, a final recommendation is handed to the Board for approval.
Moore joined the club as a father-son selection during the 2014 AFL Draft and has played 126 games.
He was also named an All-Australian in 2020.
