After a tense period of uncertainty for the Essendon Bombers, the famous club has entered a new era, naming Andrew McGrath as its 42nd captain.
McGrath’s promotion comes after former skipper Zach Merrett‘s high-profile trade request to Hawthorn
Merrett’s decision to desperately chase an out to arch-rival Hawks meant the team and player jointly decided for the 30-year-old to relinquish the captaincy.
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Now, veteran McGrath steps into the leadership role in his 10th season. He will spearhead a leadership group that also includes Kyle Langford, Mason Redman and Nic Martin.
Jye Caldwell, Sam Durham and new recruit Brayden Fiorini round out the new-look senior group for Essendon in 2026.
Zach Merrett and Andrew McGrath. Â Getty
McGrath, a former No.1 pick and 180-game veteran, was an “overwhelming” choice for the top job.
“The overwhelming approval from the playing group and coaching staff in naming Andy as our new captain tells the story in itself, really,” said Essendon’s General Manager of Football, Daniel McPherson.
“This is a well-deserved achievement and a fitting honour for someone who’s frequently set the example of exactly what an Essendon person should be.
“We’re thrilled for Andy and we know he’ll handle the responsibility with the level of character and dedication we’ve grown accustomed to seeing from him.”
“Zach was consistently outstanding in his service as Captain and did himself proud. Although he won’t be in a formal role this season, he remains an integral person for our players to look up to and learn from,” added McPherson.
“We can’t wait to throw our support behind Andy and the group as they lead our Club forward to bigger and better things.”
The captaincy change comes after a year to forget for the Bombers.
The club finished 15th and was thrust into the spotlight after Merrett publicly declared his desire to join Hawthorn.
Andrew McGrath is Essendon’s new leader into 2026. Â Robert Cianflone via Getty Images
Although being in the job since 2023 and picking up his third consecutive club best and fairest, Merrett admitted the unsuccessful Hawthorn bid was “burdening him” to the club late last month.
As Essendon refused to accept any offers for the Hawks to trade Merrett, the 30-year-old will remain at the club in 2026.
Essendon’s shake-up extends beyond the playing field as CEO Craig Vozza announced he will also step down from his role after three years.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Vozza cited personal reasons for his departure, noting his desire to spend more time with his family in South Australia. In his absence, COO Nick Ryan will be acting in the CEO role until a permanent replacement has been appointed.
Vozzo was an outspoken leader during the Merrett trade saga and remained steadfast the former captain would not be leaving the club.