LEIDIG’S DREAM GIG
Co-captain believes accountability key for side
AUSSIE RULES: Johnathan Leidig has proven himself to be one of the elite players on the Darling Downs in recent times.
The Queensland South representative is ready to add a new string to his bow ahead of the Allied Pickfords Cup season starting this weekend, being named as co-captain of South Toowoomba.
Alongside Bradley Knowles, Leidig will spearhead a new-look leadership group at the Bombers, with former Holman Medal winner Jeff Neumann and new Sydney recruit Gabe Thomas given vice-captain honours.
“Obviously the big change is going with the cocaptaincy,” Leidig said.
“Bradley and I are quite different people that bring different strengths. It’s been a good process. I’ve been a vice-captain for three years, and this has been in the works, so it is good to get it made official.
“Both Knowlesy and myself wouldn’t ask something of a teammate that we wouldn’t do, we like to lead that way.
“I’m quite a bit more vocal, I use my voice a lot which is handy in terms of giving directions from coach Nathan (Stewart).”
Liedig has gone close to the pinnacle with the Bombers as part of the 2016 grand final side that went down to University.
He said to lead South
Toowoomba to a flag would be the ultimate prize, and believes they have the personnel to challenge in 2020.
“That would be massive for me personally to lead the club to a flag,” he said.
“It’s been a dream of mine for a long time now.
“I feel with the team we’ve got, with veterans re
turning, young players and some talented new players, we can go very far this year.”
Like all clubs, the Bombers have had their preparations turned upside down due to COVID-19.
Leidig said the squad emphasised accountability as they pushed through lockdown periods without team training, a trait that he thinks can take them a long way this season.
“Whenever someone did something (training) at home, they put a photo up to let the others know what they’ve been doing,” he said.
“It kept everyone on task, and when (group) training started back, we haven’t been short for numbers.
“Accountability is what will get us to the next stage. With the longer pre-season, fitness will be important, and those who are accountable and win the one-on-ones are the ones I feel will be good.”
South Toowoomba takes on Toowoomba at Heritage Oval on Saturday in both men’s and women’s football.