There’s always been a special bond between Nat Fyfe and Fremantle, and it’s clear the newly appointed captain couldn’t be happier.
Drafted in 2009, Fyfe says the past eight years has helped shape him as a footballer, and as a person.
“I’ve learnt a lot, in the value of preparation and being a professional,” Fyfe said.
“My identity is really wrapped up in the Freo footy club, and as each year goes on I invest more time and effort into helping this club be successful.
“What I’ve learned is I love playing for Fremantle, and now I get the opportunity to lead the club - and I’m really excited about our future.”
Fyfe was appointed as Fremantle’s ninth captain after a player vote on Tuesday, which has seen an injection of youth into the leadership group.
The 25-year-old is joined by two new younger faces among Fremantle’s leaders, with Michael Walters (26) and Lachie Neale (23) added to the group that includes David Mundy, Aaron Sandilands and Lee Spurr.
Fyfe says the vote is symbolic of a new era for the side.
“We move into a new facility next week, and that’s going to give some fresh vibrancy to players and staff at all levels,” Fyfe said.
“Sonny is 26 and Lachie’s 23, and both are incredibly valuable additions to our leadership group.
“Sonny’s by far and away our best trainer and on matchday he always stands up, and Lachie has had huge year last year.
“I think it shows the maturity of the group to recognise the role that those two players have played over the last 12 months, and the role that they can have going forward is fantastic, and I look forward to working with them.”
While Fyfe is excited looking forward, he knows he wouldn’t be where he is now without the help of those close to him.
“I’ve been fortunate to have some great influences in my time playing football,” Fyfe said.
“Matthew Pavlich is one of the main ones who has been the captain for seven of my eight years professionally.
“He’s such a polished, well-balanced and well-respected leader who sets a great example, and he’s someone that I wanted to emulate coming through the ranks.
“Outside of that I have to give great credit to my family, my mum and dad who brought me up with good morals and good ethics, as well as Brett Kirk who’s been publicly acknowledged as an influence on my career.”
It’s symbolic that Fyfe comes on as captain at the age of 25, the same year as Matthew Pavlich when he was appointed captain in 2007 – however Fyfe knows he still has to shape his own career.
“I really want to forge my own path with the leadership,” Fyfe said.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to become a captain at 25. I feel I’m really ingrained within the age demographic of the playing group, and that gives me the opportunity to grow with the group and also to grow in the role.
“I have no doubt I still have a lot to learn, but I know at this time next year next I’ll be in a better position to lead than this time, and hopefully four or five years down the track as well.”
