MICHAEL Sodomaco’s run as the longest-serving captain of Werribee has come to an end.
The Lara product has selflessly stepped down after years in the role with the Tigers, informing the playing group on Monday night of his intention.
“First and foremost, I think it’s the right time for a fresh voice, (a) fresh set of ideas and all those kinds of things,” he told the club’s website.
“I’ve had the honour of captaining the club for seven years and gave it my best shot.
“It’s a great time for someone new to take on the role, make it their own, and hopefully we’re standing here in a couple of years talking about the amazing success they’ve had.”
Sodomaco has led the Tigers through a transition period, which saw the club return to being a standalone entity after alignments with North Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs between 2000 and 2017.
“It’s been a privilege having the chance to influence the on-field performance for the better, improve the club culture; overall, I think you just aim to leave it in a better place to how you found it,” he said.
“I’m really looking forward to being a Werribee player and sort of taking a bit of that weight off my shoulders and also dipping my toe in the coaching side of things as well.
“I’ll obviously be the same person around the club, but I’m looking forward to playing under another captain because I haven’t done it for a long time either.”
Werribee has practice matches against Footscray, Williamstown and Coburg scheduled before Round 1.
The Tigers’ opponent to open the new season will be confirmed when the VFL releases the 2022 fixture later this month.
Twitter: @tom_king79
