The Sydney Roosters have today announced the appointment of Jake Friend and Boyd Cordner as captains for the 2017 season.

In announcing Cordner’s elevation to role, Roosters Head Coach Trent Robinson spoke about the attributes that saw the 24 year-old earn the call-up.

“Like Jake, Boyd is someone who has the respect of both his peers and the coaching staff. In their own way, Jake and Boyd are vital leaders with a huge amount of experience and I have no doubt that they’ll work well together,” said Robinson.

Cordner, who has been a Roosters vice-captain since 2013, said he was looking forward to leading the team alongside Friend, who was appointed captain in 2015.

“It means the world to me to be named a captain of the Sydney Roosters,” said Cordner.

“The Club means so much to me, and to take on this role alongside someone like Jake, who’s not only someone I respect but also a really good mate, makes it really special,” he added.

Jake Friend spoke about the pride he felt to share this role with Cordner, who he has known and played alongside, for almost a decade.

“It’s a huge honour to lead the Sydney Roosters, so this is a special moment for Boyd,” said Friend.

“I’ve known Boyd since he joined the Roosters as a 16 year-old, and he’s developed into one of our senior leaders. I’m proud to share this role with Boyd and I’m looking forward to leading with him as we build towards our premiership campaign,” he added.

The Roosters also announced that Jared Waerea-Hargreaves will offer continued support to the captains as the Club’s vice-captain, a role he has held since 2013; with Roosters veteran Mitchell Aubusson rounding out the Club’s senior leadership structure as club captain.