After six seasons as Essendon’s courageous and committed on-field leader, Dyson Heppell has decided to step down as captain.

Heppell told teammates and coaches of his decision earlier today. 

The 30-year-old midfielder is admired throughout the AFL community for his courage and work commitment.

To the Essendon community, he is known as a dedicated club man and an inspiring leader whose selflessness is evident in his decision to hand over the captaincy. 

Heppell was only 20 years old when he was first named in the Bombers’ 2013 leadership group. In 2016 he was appointed vice-captain, and in 2017, he succeeded Jobe Watson as captain. Over the past six seasons he has led the club with excellence and sits alongside the great captains of the Bombers. 

Heppell said it was a privilege to captain the club he grew up supporting.

“As a little tacker, playing AFL footy was a dream, let alone playing for the club I supported and then further to that, becoming the captain of that club,” Heppell said.

“Over the past six years, I had enormous pride and respect for my role as captain. Leadership can be a tough caper at times, but it has given me so much joy and has played a big part in my growth as a person, player and teammate.

“I owe an enormous amount of gratitude and thanks to the various players and playing groups, coaches, staff and Board members for backing me in over the years as well as our loyal fans and members.”

President Dave Barham thanked Heppell for his contribution over the past six years. 

“Dyson Heppell is the ultimate team man. Not for the first time, Dyson has done what he thinks is in the best interest of the club and the team,” Barham said.

“On behalf of all supporters, thank you for your contribution as captain of our club. 

“We all look forward to the next part of your playing career and remain forever grateful for your outstanding contribution to this club.”

Senior coach Brad Scott commended Heppell’s selfless decision to step aside.

“Dyson has led the club through a difficult time in its long and proud history and has done so with great commitment,” Scott said.

“On behalf of the coaching staff and his fellow players, I thank him for his great service and look forward to working with him as an ongoing valuable contributor to the senior playing group.”

Essendon will announce its new captain and leadership group over the next week.