NORWOOD has finalised its leadership structure for 2022, with Matthew Nunn to skipper the group once again, supported by newly appointed vice-captain Jacob Kennerley.
Kennerley, a Norwood junior, returned to the club at the end of 2020 after spending two seasons at the Geelong Football Club. A fierce competitor, Kennerley played every game last season including both finals against the Eagles and South Adelaide.
Kennerley’s work ethic on the field is inspirational to his teammates and he sets the standard on the training track with his passion and work ethic.
The 22-year-old has led by example since returning to The Parade and has earnt the trust and respect of his teammates and coaches in becoming the Vice-Captain in 2022.
Nunn, who took on the captaincy position in 2021, will continue into his second year in the role, having led the side in 12 games including both finals.
Not only has Nunn become one of the premier midfielders in the SANFL, but his ability to connect with his teammates on and off the field has allowed him to thrive as a leader.
The Norwood coaching staff has elected another five leaders to support its two main leaders. Ruckman Harry Boyd, Declan Hamilton, Nik Rokahr, Matthew Panos and Mitch Wilkins are all included in this year’s leadership model.
The entire leadership group has not only gained the respect of the playing group but the broader club, looking to set Norwood up for success in 2022.
Senior Coach Jade Rawlings explained the decision from moving to what is a larger leadership group model in 2022.
“From the end of 2021 we identified some influential people within the club that we think are passionate about Norwood, learning about Leadership and having an influence over the group fundamentally,” said Rawlings.
“We engaged with that group over the summer and this season knowing the group better, we felt it was time for the players to vote and see who emerged. There are a distinct seven players that got the most votes from their peers inclusive of staff.
“We have compiled that group with Matthew Nunn being the Captain, Jacob Kennerley will be his Vice-Captain we are also able to have Mitch Wilkins, Declan Hamilton, Nik Rokahr, Matthew Panos and Harry Boyd as members of that Leadership Group as well.
“We have been trying to make decisions that are going to be for the betterment of the Norwood Football Club for the next three to five years and we feel as though those are the guys that are going to have the most influence on the playing group at present.”
2022 Leadership Group:
Matthew Nunn – Captain
Jacob Kennerley – Vice-Captain
Matthew Panos
Mitch Wilkins
Nik Rokahr
Declan Hamilton
Harry Boyd