Should Neitz Captain Melbourne in 2008?
In my opinion No. New Demon coach Dean Bailey has expressed his intentions for David Neitz to stay on as captain of the Demons in 2008. He says Neitz will make the decision on whether he wants to remain captain or not. The demons are in a perfect position to groom a captain while Neitz is still playing at the club, a path that Essendon took when James Hird stepped aside while he was still playing. For one of the younger players to learn from such a respected player and person as David Neitz would be priceless, just as Matthew Lloyd and James Hird did.
And given the Demons are celebrating their 150th year next year as well, what a better way start the next phase of their history than to have a new captain. Neitz will no doubt put the clubs best interests as top priority and do what he thinks is best for the Melbourne Football Club.
David Neitz has certainly been an excellent contributor to the Melbourne Football club over the course of his career. With All Australian selection and obvious leadership qualities nobody can deny David Neitz has and will continue to be an asset to the Demons.
However…with the Demons failing to perform to many fans disappointment again, and no flag since 64, Melbourne are although historically successful a struggling club and need to innovate to get results.I would not suggest taking the captaincy away from Neitz, but there needs to be more support of him put in place if they are to challenge come September.
Thanks for your comments Paul, agree that Neitz has been a brilliant servant for the Demons, I just reckon the way Essendon handled the change over with Hird was very well done and Melbourne are in a situation where they could do a similar thing.
There are definately some players that need to step up in order for the Demons to challenge for the top 8.
Are you a Demons supporter?