NORTHWICH Rugby Club’s new director of rugby John ‘Beef’ Brotherton has named the senior team captains for the 2024-25 season.

Chris Blower takes up the role as club captain, Rory Leijdekkers is to lead the first XV, Fraser Dodd is handed the role for the seconds, for whom Elliot Kelsall is picked as vice-captain.

As club captain, Blower will provide a central point of contact, and is the vital link for all members within the club.

His role is to represent the views of all and contribute to the development of the club by providing thoughts and comments from a members’ perspective.

He played as a junior for Northwich and since returning from Northumberland he quickly become a mainstay of the club, re-energising the rebirth of the club’s Superstars section and leading both the seconds and thirds as captain.

His enthusiasm and ‘can do’ attitude made him an easy choice.

“Northwich is steeped in tradition, and I have every intention of maintaining the tradition and values that we so proudly align ourselves to especially as we celebrate our 60th year anniversary,” said Blower.

“Next season brings new fixtures, new teams, new players and a new approach to our game.

“In light of this, it’s my intention to work alongside Beef, Rory, Fraser and the committee to bring this club back to the powerhouse of rugby.”

Leijdekkers worked tirelessly as first XV captain through a very trying season last term.

This appointment is not only a reflection of his outstanding abilities, but his positive contributions to the team.

His support for both the established and the young players has earned him a reputation as a firm club favourite and a valuable asset to the squad.

“I just want to take a moment to thank Beef and the committee members for allowing me the privilege to captain the first XV once again,” he said.

“In addition to this, I’d like to thank my fellow teammates for welcoming this decision so openly. This truly is an honour."