Marcus Bontempelli is poised to mark a significant milestone this weekend, as he is on track to become the Bulldogs’ fifth player to reach triple-digit appearances as captain. Although officially assuming the role in 2020, his captaincy journey began much earlier.
Back in 2016, Bontempelli made history as the youngest captain in V/AFL history to lead his team to victory.
At just 20 years and 194 days old, he orchestrated a notable win over West Coast, amassing 30 disposals, 21 of which were contested.
He filled in as captain on eight occasions between 2016 and 2018 before being formally appointed as captain before the 2020 season.
Since then, his captaincy record has been remarkable, missing only one game in round eight of 2022, with Jack Macrae stepping in on that occasion.
Bontempelli’s tenure puts him in the company of Bulldogs greats Ted Whitten Sr. (212 games), Scott Wynd (139), Arthur Olliver (127), and Brad Johnson (126).
His leadership prowess extends beyond the Kennel, earning recognition with two AFLPA Best Captain awards in 2021 and 2023, as well as being named All Australian vice-captain twice in 2021 and 2023.
