An emerging young leader and the most senior player in the AFL have been elected into Essendon's new leadership team by the playing group.
Twenty three year-old Brent Stanton and 34-year-old Dustin Fletcher will join Jobe Watson, Mark McVeigh, David Hille and Andrew Welsh in the six man 2010 leadership team.
General manager of football operations Paul Hamilton says Stanton - who has played 121 games - has been recognised by his peers for his increasing leadership role within the playing group.
""Brent has clearly improved his communication and mentoring skills and is also our delegate for the players association,"" Hamilton said.
""He has been a real leader amongst our playing group for the past few years and his elevation into the leadership group is recognition of that.""
Watch the 2010 membership video clip by clicking here or become a member by clicking here (and receive a $20 Bomber Shop e-voucher and go into the running for a Caltex Vortex Premium Fuels voucher valued at $2,500).
Since being drafted by the Bombers in 2003 with pick No.13 Stanton has developed into a key member of the Bomber midfield and is famous for his incredible endurance ability.
""Brent is clearly one of the hardest trainers at the club and sets a very high standard for other players to try and follow,"" Hamilton said.
""This is especially true of the new players that arrive at the club, they see just how hard Brent works and they learn the level they need to try and get to.""
To watch Ashley Prescott speak after training today, click here.
Stanton said it was an honour to be selected in the leadership group.
""When you look at all the great players that have been in the leadership group it makes you feel proud,"" he said.
""When I first came to the club we had been quite successful and there were all these great players and I didn't want to speak up and interupt but now I am one of the more senior guys and I want to contribute more.""
Despite entering his 18th season, Fletcher - who was most recently in the leadership in 2007 - still has the passion for the game and Hamilton said the 312 game veteran is a great addition.
""Dustin made himself available to be elected into the 2010 leadership group and the players responded,"" he said.
""He clearly has enormous respect within the playing group and he is very keen to utilise the experience he has gained from his 17 seasons in the AFL to help develop this young group.""
Hamilton said the new Essendon captain will be announced before the players leave for the Christmas break.
