McCoach steps into Heat captaincy role
HIGHTON Heat has a new on-field leader, with a change in circumstances for incumbent Luke Daffy prompting the elevation of seamer Nathan McCoach to the captaincy role.
“It’s not something that I was expecting but with Luke’s change in circumstances I’m really excited to take this opportunity,” McCoach said.
“I’ve obviously been assistant coach for the past few seasons, but it’s really humbling to take on a role at a club like Highton that I really do love.”
Despite last week’s opening round loss to premier North Geelong, McCoach was ready to take the reins for Saturday’s washed-out contest against Newtown & Chilwell.
He’s entering the role confident about the Heat’s prospects in the GCA’s top tier.
“I’m really fortunate to take charge of the really great young group that we’ve got,” he said.
“Being such a young group we’re all super keen to prove ourselves and there’s such a great vibe around the group, I don’t think that it will be an issue staying motivated moving forward.”
Now set to balance both captaincy and bowling duties, the 27-year-old acknowledges he’ll need to draw on the experience of past captain James Gillard and former coach Hayden Murrell in the field.
“It’s going to be a learning experience with some development opportunities that will be really exciting,” McCoach said.
“I’ll definitely be relying on some other strong leadership in the field, particularly Gill (Gillard) as he’s done it for the past few seasons.
“James is vice-captain, so I’m sure he’ll be a great help.”