Bartel out of Cats’ leadership group

JIMMY Bartel has stepped out of the Geelong Cats’ leadership group to make way for “fresh faces”, according to the club.
Coach Chris Scott thanked the decorated veteran for his leadership.
“Jimmy should be commended, a vice-captain who has been an integral part of the leadership group. Although he is no longer a leader in an official capacity, he will continue to be seen as one around the club.”
The club also announced at its leadership group unveiling in Melbourne on Thursday night that Harry Taylor would take over as vice-captain from replace Bartel, a Brownlow and Norm Smith medallist and a three-time premiership player.
Scott said Taylor was a “fantastic leader around the club on a daily basis”.
“We see him as a perfect fit for the role of vice-captain. His relationships with all levels of the team is outstanding and he’s certainly one many look up to.”
The club said Mathew Stokes and Mitch Duncan would join the leadership group for the first time.
Other members include Joel Selwood, Tom Hawkins, James Kelly, Andrew Mackie and Steve Johnson.
Scott welcomed Stokes and Duncan into the group.
“Stokesy’s inclusion in this year’s leadership group is a credit to him. He’s not only a well-liked member of the team but also very well-respected from the great relationships he has formed within the club.
“Mitch will be around for many years to come and we see him as one who can take the club in the right direction. Mitch impressively demonstrates young leadership, a trait that we want around the club heading into the future.”