Dayne Zorko has stepped down as Brisbane captain, saying the time is true for somebody new to guide the AFL membership into its subsequent chapter.
The Lions ended their 10-year finals drought throughout Zorko’s first full season as captain in 2019 they usually have reached the finals yearly since.
Zorko’s 105-game reign as Brisbane captain sits behind solely Michael Voss (210), Jonathan Brown (128) and Roger Merrett (125).
But his management spell wasn’t with out controversy.
There have been requires Zorko to relinquish the captaincy position final yr following his horrid on-field sledge that introduced Melbourne defender Harrison Petty to tears.
Zorko rode that storm out and led the Lions to final yr’s preliminary last, with their premiership hopes finally ended by Geelong.
The 34-year-old expressed his need throughout the low season to guide Brisbane once more in 2023, however he introduced to his teammates this week he would hand over the baton.
“It’s been a privilege and a pleasure to lead a club with such incredible history and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be at its helm the past five years,” Zorko mentioned.
“Over my years as captain, I’m proud to have helped the club be more respected again amongst the AFL world and to have helped lead the charge in the successes we’ve had on the field.
“I step down at a time when the membership is in actually good palms and getting into a brand new chapter.
“It’s something I have really, really thought about (stepping down) and wanted to do.
“I’m clearly coming in direction of the tip of my profession so I really feel the timing is true to let the brand new chief discover their very own toes within the position.
“I’ll be there to support them the whole way in whatever way I can.”
Brisbane will appoint a brand new captain over the approaching weeks with Harris Andrews, Lachie Neale, Jarrod Berry and Hugh McCluggage anticipated to be among the many contenders.
Lions coach Chris Fagan praised Zorko’s contribution as captain.
“Dayne leaves an exceptional legacy after holding the captaincy at such a pivotal time in Lions history,” Fagan mentioned.
“He took over half-way through my second year. His leadership and drive have been key factors in our performance improvement and you simply can’t argue with what the team has achieved under his captaincy.
“His achievements have prolonged off the sector too, Dayne is a real clubman and has all the time been one to place his hand up for the great of the Club.
“Dayne understands young leaders and I have no doubt he’ll help mentor our next captain.
“He is a fearless participant with a fierce willpower in his personal efficiency and in addition that of the workforce. Dayne will all the time be recognised as considered one of Brisbane’s most influential skippers.”
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
