Essendon VFL has named its Leadership Group with four decorated state league players to support Captain, Nick O’Brien.

Reigning best and fairest winner Aaron Heppell has been named Vice-Captain.

While former Geelong AFL player Michael Luxford, Victorian state squad member James Ferry and former Coburg Vice-Captain and renowned VFL goal kicker Daniel Younan round out the Leadership Group.

Coach Paul Corrigan is proud of the mix of players elected by their teammates.        

“Aaron Heppell had a standout year last year and he really grew as a leader off the back of that,” Corrigan said.

“He’s shown again through the pre-season the qualities he has.

"To then add in Michael Luxford, James Ferry and Danny Younan gives us a really good blend.

“James Ferry has been part of the Club for a couple of years now and really understands what it takes to play some really good VFL football and to also impart his experience onto the younger guys.

“Michael Luxford has spent three or four years in Geelong’s system, he can bring that knowledge to our VFL side.

“And also Danny Younan who was Vice-Captain at Coburg – he comes with great experience and has been part of the VFL system for a number of years.”

Essendon begin their pre-season trial matches against Geelong this evening and are likely to field several AFL listed players.

The Bombers are close to finalising the last few spots remaining on their VFL list and Corrigan is pleased with how the squad is taking shape.

“It’s a little bit of a younger group but I’m excited by that,” he said. 

“The enthusiasm that comes in with the younger group is good and with those younger guys, hopefully we can give them a great opportunity to get drafted.”