The Canberra Raiders have announced a new look ‘Club 82’ leadership group for the 2015 season, with Jarrod Croker joined by four players to form the club’s senior leadership.
Shaun Fensom, Sia Soliola, Frank-Paul Nuuausala and Josh Hodgson join Croker in ‘Club 82’, with a focus on experience in leadership and seniority at the forefront of the selection process.
Croker said each of the members of ‘Club 82’ brings something different to their approach on leadership and said he looked forward to having their support for the 2015 season.
“All of the players who have been selected for the ‘Club 82’ this year bring their own experiences and styles to the role and I think it’s important to have that as a first time captain,” Croker said. “The five of us bring a mix of players who have been at the club their whole careers, some new faces, former captains and players who have tasted premiership success.”
Croker highlighted each individual who has been selected for ‘Club 82’ as bringing something special to the leadership role and said he’ll accept input and advice from all of them throughout the season.
“Shaun Fensom is a player who leads with his actions and commands the respect of the playing group. He’s also had leadership experience at a junior level and was my captain when we won the Toyota Cup back in 2008,” Croker said.
“Sia Soliola has been playing top level rugby league for over a decade and comes to the club as an experienced leader and premiership winner. His input and communication is outstanding, as is his command of respect amongst the younger players, particularly those from Polynesian backgrounds.”
“Frank-Paul Nuuausala is another player who has a premiership to his name and he’s also represented New Zealand at test level. He has been very honest and upfront with the playing group since his arrival and knows what it takes to be successful.”
“Josh Hodgson was captain of Hull KR in last year’s English Super League competition and he gives us an experienced captain who I can seek for advice and guidance in my first year in the role.”
The five members of ‘Club 82’ will work with the playing group to provide a strong communication channel between the players and coaching staff and Croker said he’s encouraging other players in the squad to have a voice as well.
“We’re a very tight group this year and we expect everyone in the squad to show their leadership skills by leading with their actions on and off the field,” Croker said. “It’s an exciting time for the club and the more leadership we can show as a group the better we will be as a team.”
