The Bendigo Bank Cats have announced a seven-man leadership group for season 2016.

The Cats will follow last season’s system of sharing the role among a group of players, rather than appointing a sole captain.

Ben Raidme and Ryan Williams will retain their positions in the leadership group whilst Kieren Paliouras and Tom Atkins will join them following successful seasons with the Cats in 2015.

New to Geelong’s VFL side in 2016, Alex Hickey, Tom Stewart and Jake Edwards will comprise the remainder of the group that will share captaincy roles throughout the season.

Cats VFL Manager Troy Selwood believes the large group of players will be beneficial for the side.

"The group demonstrates the depth of leadership within the squad. There are a number of emerging leaders and some experienced players which adds to the diversity and strength of the group,” he said. 

“Personally I think the mix of leaders is a huge asset. We have talented and experienced players such as Raidme, Paliouras, Edwards and Williams who will lead the charge.

"Coupled with some younger campaigners in Stewart, Hickey and Atkins who bring a fresh approach and enthusiasm.”

The group will lead a new look Cats outfit in 2016 and their varied leadership styles will be necessary to gel the players together from both AFL and VFL lists.

“We are really proud of the players who were nominated into the VFL Leadership Group. They are fantastic role models and mentors to not only our VFL listed players, but also to players within the AFL program,” Selwood said.

“Our VFL Leaders have diverse backgrounds and all bring something different and unique to contribute.”

Whilst the group was picked based on their leadership qualities, Selwood believes that these traits are held by a number of players in the squad, highlighting the depth the Cats possess in 2016.

“What also excites me are the leadership capabilities of players outside the official VFL leadership group, namely Kane Leersen, Simon Close, Sandy Robinson, James Tsitas, Brenton Rees, Cameron Tudor, Brant Haintz.

"Their commitment to the VFL program and their football journeys is first class. All have the ability to be leaders in their own right,” Selwood said.

“For 2016, we will rotate the VFL captaincy duties throughout the season.

"Primarily this will be picked from the VFL leadership group, however we are open to providing opportunities to AFL Listed Players to assist with their development.”