Robbie Castello is a likely frontrunner as Werribee’s next captain. 66476 Picture: DAMIAN VISENTINI
BY MICHAEL ESPOSITO
DOM Gleeson said Robbie Castello was the natural choice to replace him as captain of Werribee.
Gleeson, who is taking up a job as playing assistant coach with Geelong’s VFL club, said Castello has been an inspirational vice-captain for the Tigers and would be a deserving captain.
“It was something that I gave some thought about over the off-season, whether I do step down as captain and maybe give Robbie a go if I was to stay there,” he said.
“It is a great role, and it’s probably the best honour I’ve been given in football, so I would have liked to share that with Robbie.
“But in saying that there’s Ben Sharp who just won the best-and-fairest, and Will Martinello’s a young guy who’s stepped up.”
Gleeson said he didn’t expect the welcome mat to be rolled out for him when playing against his former club next season.
“They’ll make it hard for me to come back to Werribee in terms of playing there if I play against them.”
He said it was too early to reflect on his illustrious career at Werribee, where he claimed dual best-and-fairest awards, holds the games record, is a life-member, and was captain for the past three years.
“It’s probably too soon to look back on. I almost feel emotional when I do look back because it’s been a long time. And although it was time for me to move on it does open doors for some young kids.
“It’s disappointing leaving Werribee, but we left on good terms. That was always the main aim, and (Werribee CEO) Mark Penaluna and (coach) Scott West and Robbie Castello allowed me to do that, and it’s a credit to them. I really appreciate the support I’ve got from Werribee.”
Werribee president John Nicol said: “It is an understatement to say he is a very
important part of this club’s history.
“While I am sad to see him move on, like others before him, I am proud of what our club has given to him and vice versa.”
