Bontempelli remains Bulldogs skipper



Marcus Bontempelli will continue to serve as Western Bulldogs captain as part of an unchanged leadership group in 2023.

The four-time Charles Sutton Medallist was first elevated to skipper at the beginning of the 2020 season, captaining 66 games across three seasons.

The 27-year-old claimed the AFLPA’s Best Captain award in 2021 and was named All Australian vice-captain that same year.

Alongside Bontempelli sits vice-captain Jack Macrae for a second season, with leadership group members Taylor Duryea, Caleb Daniel and Aaron Naughton.

“It continues to be such an honour captaining this Club and I am really excited about what is next for this group,” Bontempelli said

“To be trusted again by the playing group and staff is something I won’t take for granted, while having guys of Jacko, Doc, CD and Naughty’s calibre is important in terms of building cohesion and continuing to search for sustained success.”

“From a club point of view, we value contributions from the entire playing group and encourage individuals to bring their own leadership qualities to collectively add connection throughout the 2023 season.”

“There is a positive energy around our football program at the moment and it’s a privilege to lead this team for another season.”

Three-time All-Australian Macrae was first included in the leadership group as vice-captain in 2022, playing 208 games and kicking 47 goals.