'I want to lead with my actions': Crichton to captain Bulldogs

Canterbury-Bankstown have announced that star recruit Stephen Crichton will lead the Bulldogs as captain in his first year with the club. 

The club confirmed on Thursday the appointment of the three-time premiership winner after star duo Reed Mahoney and Matt Burton co-captained the side in 2023.

Chrichton, who will lead the club out in his first appearance as a Bulldog in Friday night's Pre-Season Challenge clash with the Sharks, said he hopes to bring the knowledge and experience learned from past leaders at his former club Penrith.

“I’ve been at a successful club, I’ve seen what good leaders look like and I’ve learnt a lot from the older boys that I was with," Crichton said.

"I’ve taken a few things from each person that I can implement in my life on and off the field, as well as in being a leader.

“Going into the camp I knew straight away the boys were nervous and I knew that my communication and leadership could bring the boys up a bit and make them excited.

“I just want to lead with my actions.”

Bulldogs coach and Crichton's former assistant-coach, Cameron Ciraldo said the 23-year-old strike weapon has demonstrated leadership since he first arrived at Belmore late last year.

“Stephen is a really good reader of energy. He understands when people are a little bit flat, low on energy, and when it’s a bit quiet, and he can change the mood in an instant," Ciraldo said.

"Sometimes that’s with some annoying music or sounds, or loud noises that he comes up with but he’s great at bringing people together.

“He really understands bringing positive energy to the group and he’s been such a valuable asset to us this pre-season.”

Ciraldo met with Mahoney and Burton to discuss the way forward in 2024 and the 2023 co-captains agreed Crichton is the man to lead the Bulldogs in 2024.

“Reed and Burto’s professionalism and commitment to this team needs to be acknowledged and commended and they very much remain leaders in this group," Ciraldo added.