Matthew Pavlich said he’d been ‘refreshed’ since handing over the captaincy to David Mundy in January, but was adamant that more leadership would be required across the team, following Freo’s start to 2016.

“It’s been refreshing in some ways,” Pavlich said. 

“But where we’re at right now requires all the leaders to step up and push forward.”

The season has started differently for Pavlich, who admitted that delegating the weight of leadership to his teammates had been an unfamiliar, but rewarding venture, after nine years captaining Freo.

“I’ve been diverting a bit more load to David (Mundy) and Nathan (Fyfe),” he said.

“On one hand you try not to do too much and just let them grow into the role. 

“But at the same time, I’m there for them to lean on and when I think there’s something to be said or action to be made, I’m happy to stand up.”

Players must take responsibility

Pavlich has played well in Freo’s last two games, but wasn’t fazed by the commentary that followed the team’s round one loss to the Western Bulldogs.

The Freo games record holder said his decision to play on in 2016 was bound to be a storyline for the media, but remained comfortable with his decision to continue playing.

“It was always going to be the narrative at some point,” he said.

“That’s what people in the media are paid to do, make comment on players and the decisions they make. 

“I’m very comfortable with my decision.”

Pavlich positive about Freo forwards

Having kicked five goals in Freo’s past two games, including a goal of the year nomination against West Coast last week, Pavlich said he would continue to play as long as he felt he was contributing to the team. 

“I felt as though I had a little bit more to give, and at this stage of the season I feel like I’ve been able to do that,” he said.

“I’d rather take the emotional risk and leave it all out there.”