Matt Moylan, 24, has been named the new captain of the Penrith Panthers.
The Panthers coach Anthony Griffin, announcing the appointment today, said he had been deeply impressed by the young fullback’s commitment while training in the off-season as he recovered from an ankle injury that ended his 2015 run in Round 12.
“I’ve been here now three months and made sure I’ve taken my time with this decision. He’s a very composed young man,” Griffin said. “He’s already achieved a hell of a lot in his short career, bearing in mind he still hasn’t turned 25.
“Hopefully he gets through the season without injury. He’s had a terrible run. That’s his main priority at the moment.”
Moylan, a Baulkham Hills kid, played for Windsor Wolves before joining the Panthers in 2013, quickly becoming a fan favourite. Though the Panthers have used him primarily at the back, he is also comfortable in five-eighth.
NRL legend Petero Civoniceva, who finished his career at Panthers, was quick to welcome the appointment on Twitter.
Congrats @matt_moylan on being named @PenrithPanthers skipper. Great appointment for one of the most exciting players in @NRL
— Petero Civoniceva (@PetCivo) January 27, 2016
Moylan, who replaces Penrith stalwart Peter Wallace as captain, was surprised but honoured to get the job.
“Growing up, you want to play first grade and being from the local area, it’s a massive achievement and I’m really honoured to be named captain for this year,” he said.
“With the senior players we’ve got here – Peter Wallace, Jamie Soward, guys like that that have done the job before – it was a bit of a surprise.
“But I’m ready for the challenge. It’ll help me going forward as a footy player.” – Jesse Mullens
Photo of Matt Moylan and Anthony Griffin at the announcement from the Penrith Panthers Twitter feed.
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