Bowls Australia has appointed Commonwealth Games gold medallist Lynsey Armitage as its inaugural national captain.
Earlier today, the national selection panel ratified Armitage’s appointment, while also appointing fellow gold medallists Wayne Turley and Karen Murphy as joint vice-captains.
Since making her international debut in 2003, Armitage, 27, has gone on to represent Australia on 164 occasions, medaling on nine of those including gold at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games and 2008 World Championships.
Armitage will lead the team into battle for the first time later this month when Australia confronts South Africa in a best-of-three test series in South Australia.
“It’s a very exciting announcement,” Armitage said.
“I guess it is new territory for myself, I’m a little unsure as to what to expect, but I’ve been in the (informal) leadership group before and I’ve always enjoyed those type of roles.
“It’s certainly a privilege and with Wayne and Karen, who are two excellent communicators, we’ve got a strong (leadership) group there to build Australia to success.”
As three of the sport’s most decorated lawn bowlers, Armitage, Turley and Murphy have represented Australia on close to 700 occasions and are widely venerated for their international performances.
According to national coach Steve Glasson, the triumvirate’s leadership positions are thoroughly deserved.
“There’s a lot of experience amongst the group, but they’re very much worthy recipients whose leadership credentials are demonstrated both on and off the green,” Glasson said.
“They’re three very good role models and we’re happy to make today’s announcement.”
