The Newcastle Jets have named Max Burgess as captain for the 2026/27 Men’s A-League season, with defender Joe Shaughnessy named vice-captain.
It marks another step in Burgess’ return to Newcastle, having first joined the club in 2014/15 before returning at the beginning of last season.
The 31 year old brought plenty of experience to a young Jets squad and played a key role in a history making 2025/26 campaign.
Newcastle claimed its first Premier’s Plate and Australia Cup double last season, with Burgess scoring and earning player of the match honours in the Cup final.
He also stepped into the captain’s role several times last season when Kosta Grozos was unavailable.
Now, Burgess will take on the responsibility full time as the Jets prepare to defend their Premier’s Plate and make their AFC Champions League Elite debut.
“It’s a huge honour and privilege to lead this group, it’s a special group and a special club,” Burgess said.
Shaughnessy, meanwhile, brings leadership experience of his own after previously serving as captain of Scottish club Dundee FC.
“It’s good, it’s a real honour to be given that responsibility and to be able to help out Max with whatever he needs, as well as be an example for the young lads,” he said.
The leadership announcement comes as the Jets continue preparations for a huge season under head coach Mark Milligan.
Newcastle will face a packed campaign both domestically and in Asia as it looks to build on last season’s success.
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