New captain Ben is the perfect choice as Giants leader
IS there anyone better suited to lead the Giants on the field in Super League X than Ben Roarty?
The 27-year-old Australian back rower has been confirmed as Giants captain for 2005, with Chris Thorman named vice-captain.
The pair have taken over from Darren Fleary, who has moved to Leigh, and Darren Turner, who was forced to retire with a knee injury.
And the choice of Roarty as the on-the-field leader has been well received across the board.
From the moment he scored with his first touch of the ball in the 28-26 home triumph against Halifax in June, 2003, the former Penrith Panthers ace has been a real fans' favourite.
He's the typical no-nonsense forward who always leads from the front, and he is hoping that receiving the captain's armband will inspire him even more!
"Being named captain is a fantastic honour. I was stoked when Jon (Sharp) offered me the job," he said.
"It's going to be a privilege to be captain of such a great team and the captain of a club with such a great history.
"I've always tried to give 100% to the team, and that's probably why Jon has chosen me and why I was fortunate enough to be named last year's player of the season.
"I've always tried to lead by example on the field and I know the rest of the boys will feed off my enthusiasm.
"But in reality, there are 13 captains on the field and we get inspiration off each other.
"Success this season will be down to a team effort, and I know we have a great team at the Giants."
And Giants Player of the Year Roarty believes there is every chance that Huddersfield can build on last year's achievements.
Roarty played a massive part as Huddersfield reached the semi-final of the Challenge Cup for the first time in 33 years and enjoyed their highest finish in British rugby league for four decades.
"Overall, last year was a good year and we were able to achieve a fair amount," he added.
"But I think I speak for everyone in the squad when I say we're in a position to really `kick butt' this time around.
"Everyone is really buzzing.
"The boys who were here last season are coming on leaps and bounds and the input of the new players has already been immense.
"What Chris Thorman, Brad Drew, Mick De Vere and Paul Jackson have brought to the club has been incredible."
Roarty is the first to admit, however, that Super League X promises to be a far tougher competition than last year's.
And with two clubs facing the drop to make way for new French club UTC, nothing can be taken for granted.
"It's going to be a very tough and intense competition," he added.
"But that's the way it should be. That's how to bring the best out of everyone.
"With two going down it means there's extra pressure on clubs, but we'll be ready!"
