Chris Goulding named as captain, Shea Ili vice captain for NBL23

Melbourne United has named Chris Goulding and Shea Ili as its Captain and Vice Captain respectively for the upcoming NBL23 season.

Decided by a players vote, Goulding will lead Melbourne United once again as captain. However, speaking to the playing group after the announcement, he said that each player will have the responsibility to step up as a leader this season.

“It’s an honour,” he said.

“I always like (the captaincy) to go to an open vote because things change from year to year, you never know what’s going to happen.

“Everyone’s voice is valued the exact same amount on this team. Everyone is a leader and everyone is going to have moments this year when they have to step up and lead this team to help this club to get wins.”

These words echoed Head Coach Dean Vickerman’s sentiments.

“The way we’ve always operated is that everybody is a leader on this team,” Vickerman said.

“We want to make sure that everyone is doing their part and holding each other accountable so we can achieve the things we set out to do this season.”

Shea Ili has also been recognised by his teammates, being announced as Vice Captain for Melbourne United in NBL23. The recently announced NBL1 South MVP and reigning NBL 6^th Man of the Year admits himself that he isn’t always a leader who is outwardly vocal, often letting his actions set the example.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how this year goes,” Ili said.

“I’m not super vocal at times, but I do think I can lead through my actions.”

The announcement came during the side’s training camp in Ballarat, which will culminate in a clash with the Brisbane Bullets tonight at Selkirk Stadium at 7pm.

Tickets for the game  are available here! Be sure to get in quick, as seats are filling up fast!