Bode and Panos to lead Redlegs in 2019

Norwood will once again be led by Captain Jace Bode for the 2019 SANFL Statewide Season, while 2018 runner-up Best and Fairest Matthew Panos has been appointed vice.

Bode has led the club as sole skipper for the past two seasons, while Panos has been elevated to vice-captain after previously serving in the leadership group.

The decision to appoint the duo was made by Senior Coach, Jarrod Cotton.

The 31-year old has been a key pillar in Norwood’s defence for a number of years which has culminated in three premierships for the Redlegs in 2012, 13 and 14.

After returning from the Western Bulldogs in 2013, Panos has made a name for himself as one of the league’s best on-ballers.

The 2014 Jack Oatey Medallist has served in the leadership group in the two past seasons and will look to add another string to his bow as vice-captain.

Cotton said both players deserved their leadership roles for the upcoming season and is looking forward to seeing them lead from the front in 2019.

“Bode’s been enormous since taking over the captaincy in 2017,” Cotton said.

“He leads by example, trains well and is a fantastic leader on and off the ground.

“It’s great to have Jace go on for another season; he is training really well and is ready for a big 2019.

“As for Matthew Panos he has already been a leader for a number of years within our leadership groups.

“As coach, I think it was a great opportunity this year to add a vice captain and Matt fits that bill really well.

“I have no doubt that he will embrace the role and hopefully will grow into a fantastic leader of our football club.”

Bode said he considered it a privilege to continue as captain and looked forward to the season ahead.

“It’s a huge honour to captain one of the oldest and most iconic football clubs in Australia,” Bode said.

“I’m really looking forward to working alongside Matthew Panos and the leadership group in 2019.

I’m confident that we are tracking in the right direction and looking forward to kicking off the season against the Bays.”

Newly promoted vice-captain, Panos said he is excited about the season ahead and is looking forward to growing into the role alongside current captain Jace Bode.

“It’s a real privilege to be elected as the vice-captain of Norwood for 2019,” Panos said.

“I’ve been a proud member of the leadership group of for a number of years and it’s a fantastic feeling to know I am someone the playing group and the club can trust and rely on.

“It is a true honour to represent this amazing club each week and expanding my leadership role will drive me to become a better person on and off the field.”

In coming weeks Norwood will finalise the remainder of its Senior Leadership Group based on who best epitomises the squad’s values and behaviours.