By Williamstown Media
Cameron Polson has stepped down from his role as Williamstown’s VFL co-captain after four seasons, with Finn O’Dwyer continuing as captain for the 2026 season.
Polson, who led the Seagulls to three consecutive finals appearances, was appointed captain ahead of the 2022 season, before opting to co-captain alongside O’Dwyer for the 2025 season.
Regarded highly by both teammates and fans alike, Polson was drafted by Carlton in the 2016 AFL Draft, playing 19 AFL games, before joining the Seagulls in 2021, and being elected captain just a season later.
During his time as captain, Polson has set up a culture of passion and positivity, and after signing a new contract in the off season, will remain a crucial part of the leadership group this season.
After a successful season as co-captain last year, finishing seventh in the Gerry Callahan Medal tally, Finn O’Dwyer will step into the solo role for the 2026 campaign.
The 25-year-old defender will be hoping to lead his side to the ultimate glory of a Premiership, with a season of experience as captain under his belt.
Also drafted by Carlton’s AFL side, O’Dwyer has played VFL for three clubs during his career, and his wealth of experience will be on full display as he captains the club solo for the first time.
Supporting O’Dwyer in his role as captain will be the 2026 leadership group, made up of Polson, returning vice-captains Toby Triffett and Jack Toner, and a fresh face to the leadership group, Luke Parks.
Parks, who is the reigning Gerry Callahan medalist, having won in both 2024 and 2025, is a vice-captain for the first time at Williamstown, after joining the club in 2024 from Carlton.
Parks made his debut for Williamstown in round one of 2024 where he impressed in every game that season, and despite an injury in the wildcard final, his performances were enough to secure a first year best and fairest win.
The South Australian has also made the VFL’s team of the year every year he’s been at the club and will look to have yet another successful season for the Seagulls, alongside his new co-captain duties.
23-year-old Toby Triffett retains his spot in the leadership group after a strong 2025 campaign, with the promising midfielder showing excellent leadership qualities after arriving at Williamstown in 2023.
The former Lions academy player has shown maturity for his age, and provides significant athleticism for the Seagulls in midfield, having finished first in both the agility and two-kilometre tests at the 2021 AFL Draft combine.
Finally, rounding out the leadership group is 24-year-old midfielder Jack Toner, a staple of Williamstown’s VFL side since his debut in 2021.
The 2024 Ron James Memorial Trophy winner has played over 70 games for the club, recording multiple top ten finishes in the Gerry Callahan medal count.
With the Round 1 clash on the 20th of March with Frankston fast approaching, Finn O’Dwyer and the rest of the leadership group will be looking to start the season off with a win across the bay.
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