Sydney will have a sole captain in 2024 with Callum Mills set to lead the side out in the upcoming campaign.
Mills has been a co-captain alongside Luke Parker and Dane Rampe since 2022 but will now lead on his own as the two veterans take a back seat. Since 2005, Sydney has only had a sole skipper in 2017 and 2018 when Josh Kennedy held the role.
Senior coach John Longmire believes the decision to appoint the 26-year-old as sole skipper comes at the right time as his leadership starts to really shine.
“I want to personally thank Ramps and Parks for playing important roles as co-captains of this football club, and I and the playing group will still be leaning on them for guidance going forward,” Longmire said via a statement.
“I first met Callum when he was in the Academy, and he was a standout even at that young age and had genuine leadership potential.
“We feel as though the time is right for Callum to be the sole captain and lead the group going forward.”
Mills has played 155 games for the Swans since making his debut in 2016. He is contracted at the club until at least the end of the 2029 season.
The tough midfielder said it was an honour to continue in his captaincy role.
“It’s an absolute honour to captain this club. I grew up as a Swans supporter and am a proud New South Welshman, so having the opportunity to lead this great club is not lost on me,” Mills said via a statement.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed co-captaining with Dane and Luke, their leadership has shaped the club to what it is today and I will still be learning from them going forward.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to say thank you to our members and commercial partners for their passion and support. I cannot wait to get back to full fitness and run out with my teammates to the roar of an SCG crowd. We have a great squad, and I’m really excited about what we can achieve this season.”
Mills is set to miss the start of the 2024 season as he returns from a rotator cuff shoulder injury.
The Swans open their campaign with an Opening Round clash against the Demons at the SCG on Thursday, March 7.