James Sicily has declared himself an empowering leader, but also one prepared to have “challenging” conversations, as he prepares to step out for the first time as Hawthorn captain.
Sicily’s development from an overly emotional but talented defender into one of the club’s true leaders will see him be caretaker skipper for the next four rounds, beginning in the twilight clash against COVID-hit Melbourne at the MCG on Saturday.
Hawthorn stand-in skipper James Sicily at training this week.Credit:Getty Images
Ben McEvoy’s serious neck injury earlier this month meant vice-captain Jaeger O’Meara, 28, initially filled the top role but he and Sicily, 27, struck a plan to ensure both men had a chance to show their captaincy credentials. McEvoy turns 33 in July and may cede the role once the season is over.
“‘Jaegs’ and I collaborated and came up with what would be the best strategy moving forward with ‘Macca’ out. We conversed and thought it would be a good idea for him to captain up until round seven, being this round, and I will have a go at it until round 10. See how I go,” Sicily said on Friday.
“There is usually the mid-season review in round 10. If I do a good enough job, we’ll see how I go, I might be captain for a bit longer.”
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Captaincy also brings greater responsibility off the field, whether that be dealing with club management and the board, the media and, of course, handling teammates. The latter can bring all manner of challenges, including boosting the confidence of emerging youngsters, or putting heat on more experienced teammates not performing up to expectations.
“I think I am quite empowering of my teammates, know what their strengths are, tell them that’s how they should go about their footy. I think I’ve got strong relationships within the club, which allows me to have some good conversations,” Sicily said.
“Whether that be a challenging conversation, or one to just give someone a cuddle and encourage them to tell them to keep going.”
Sicily to embrace captaincy against COVID-hit Demons
Source: Philippines Alive
