After seven seasons as Werribee captain Michael Sodomaco will hand over the reins in 2022.

Sodomaco informed the playing group of his decision to pass on the role on Monday night and said it was time for the club’s next leader to take the club forward.

“First and foremost, I think it’s the right time for a fresh voice, fresh set of ideas and all those kinds of things,” he said.

“I’ve had the honour of captaining the club for seven years and gave it my best shot.

“It’s a great time for someone new to take on the role, make it their own and hopefully were standing here in a couple of years’ time talking about the amazing success they’ve had.”

Sodomaco took over from Jared Moore ahead of the 2015 season and is now the club’s longest serving captain. He said his tenure has been a rewarding one.  

“It’s been a privilege having the chance to influence the on-field performance for the better, improve the club culture, overall, I think you just aim to leave it in a better place to how you found it,” he said.

“I’m really looking forward to being a Werribee player and sort of taking a bit of that weight off my shoulders and also dipping my toe in the coaching side of things as well.

“I’ll obviously be the same person around the club but I’m looking forward to playing under another captain because I haven’t done it for a long time either.”

As for who the club’s next captain will be, Sodomaco said there are several quality candidates.

“When I made the decision that was at the forefront of my mind, there are a lot of guys that deserve the opportunity, will be here for a number of years and will do the job really well,” he said.

“I’m sure we’ll be in good hands and hopefully by me sticking around and playing this year I can sort of offer some help when they feel they need it and help make it a really smooth transition.”