Similar thread on the same topic here
https://weststigersforum.com/threads/2025-leadership.36129/#post-2029534
I was wondering exactly the same and for similar reasons. Api is the lead by example type on the field - I have no idea how he approaches leadership off it. I think the key is that while lead by example is good we also need to have somone who holds players to account on the field. Benji and Co can do it off the field no problems.
Luai has the runs on the board and the personality to be that person. For mine I think Api retains the C and Romey pick up the VC and the role of directing the team around the park and holding players to account while he is on it. Let's face it he is also better positioned that Api to do that.
We have a yong team combined with seasoned players who have been falling short. We have walked past sub standard performances for years - it we want to change the culture we need to call out poor efforts - in a professional and accepting manner - otherwise what we let go is what we accept.
Benji needs to create that culture. The fact that Naden and Bateman couldn't handle being called out shows how poor our culture has been. Then again, not being there, it is possible that the way Benji called them out was part of the problem.
Our coaching staffs need to have a good hard conversation with the playing groups within the club and have an open 360 degree review each week with a set of rules based on improving team performance. It is very easy to say, very hard to do well.
I have been banging on about leadership for a couple of seasons now - it is what we truly lack. Richo is showing it in the front office, Benji has put a line in the sand and has shown he won't accept crap from his senior players so we are on the right trajectory. Let's see where it takes us.
