Hombsch, Westhoff elevated to Port Adelaide leadership group

TRAVIS BOAK will again captain Port Adelaide in 2016 with the support of seven other leaders.

Following the elevation of Hamish Hartlett to the Power’s vice-captaincy in a comprehensive vote by the players, coaches and executive of the club, six others will form the complete Port Adelaide leadership group.

They include previous vice-captains Brad Ebert and Matthew Lobbe, and Tom Jonas and Ollie Wines.

Two new faces become formal leaders, with Jack Hombsch and Justin Westhoff to join the group for the first time.

The new-look leadership group blends a mix of experience and youth from each of the Power’s respective lines, according to senior coach Ken Hinkley.

“I’ve said previously that this is a leadership group for the whole club, not just our football team, which is why we also sought buy-in from senior leaders in administration,” Hinkley told portadelaidefc.com.au.

Hinkley said the new group presented new opportunities to develop the Power's leadership.

That opportunity extends to new and young players like Ollie Wines and Jack Hombsch, who will continue to extend their presence as experienced heads in the midfield and defence.

It also gives newcomers like Justin Westhoff – one of the Power’s most experienced players – the chance to take on greater seniority for the first time.

Hinkley expects all eight leaders to set the standard for the playing group in 2016, but says leadership must be shown from every player on the list if Port Adelaide is to rise up the ladder.

“We have formal leaders, that’s true, but I am a firm believer that every player needs to turn up, every day, give 100 percent to our football club and play that brand of Port Adelaide football,” Hinkley said.

“Professionalism and meeting our standards are non-negotiables, that’s the Port Adelaide way.”

Justin Westhoff joins Port Adelaide's leadership group [pic: AFL Media]

Jackson Trengove is the only player to step down from last year's leadership group, with Ken Hinkley thanking him for his service over the last five years.

“Jackson has been an outstanding member of our leadership group for the past three years and I thank for his efforts both on and off the field during that period,” said Hinkley.

"Like Alipate [Carlile], Jackson will still be a key leader in our defensive half this season and moving forward.”

This marks Travis Boak’s fourth year as captain of Port Adelaide since taking over the role from Dom Cassisi in 2013.