Last year’s audition as one of eight members of the leadership group gave Dan Hannebery a good taste of the responsibility ahead of him this season as one of the Sydney Swans’ vice-captains.

Hannebery, alongside Luke Parker and Dane Rampe, was appointed to the position in a December reshuffle which also saw Josh Kennedy replace Kieren Jack and Jarrad McVeigh as stand-alone skipper.

The former co-captains remain in the leadership group which also includes defenders Heath Grundy and Nick Smith.

Hannebery’s desire to become a leader began two years ago, when the midfielder approached senior teammates and coaches to see what it took to take that next step.

He got to work in that year, making a conscious effort to become a bigger voice on and off the field as well as taking others under his wing.

The 25-year-old was rewarded with a spot in the leadership group, an honour which Hannebery welcomed with both arms.

He enjoyed a stellar season, both individually and as a mentor, impressing coaches enough to be sworn in as vice-captain.

Hannebery says his role within the leadership group was as much “eye opening” as an ideal audition for what lies ahead.

“Before last pre-season, I really wanted to improve in my leadership. Especially given we’ve got such a young group, it’s something I wanted to strive to get better at,” he said

“I spoke to a few people and made some improvements last pre-season. As the season goes on you get better, being able to sit back and observe the first few months then having an influence. It was eye opening and it change my perspective on things.

“Hopefully I’ll continue to learn and improve this season.”

Hannebery’s approach and perspective to his football has changed, but only for the better.

To be a leader, Hannebery could no longer focus solely “on my own backyard” but go out of his way to help others excel.

“When you’re a young player, you’re worried about your own backyard first and foremost,” Hannebery said.

“Your preparation, your recovery and that your performances at training and on game day are at a high level. Your focus is to have that sorted.

“When you’re in a position of leadership you’ve got to change your mindset, how you can make your teammates better players.

“That includes working from the bottom up, developing those relationships with younger players and steer them in the right direction.

“It’s all about improve that standard, not just in seniors, but reserves. Together that drives a great culture and helps the side grow.”