Is 2 better than 1? - By Mary

NRL season is well and truly on its way. 

Last week, new Parramatta Eels coach Brad Arthurs announced the captains for the Parramatta Eels for the 2014 season.

As expected, Jarryd Hayne and Tim Mannah will continue as co-captains for the Eels in season 2014.

The way I look at it, Arthurs only had two options - either appointing one of these men as captain or going down the path he has chosen, being to select co-captains.

When you look at each individual it is clear as to why they have been selected.

Tim Mannah is one of Parramatta's favourite sons. He is a sensational role model and his community involvement is something which the Parramatta Eels truly celebrate. Tim was recognised for his work in the community late last year, being awarded the Parramatta 'Citizen of the Year'. It seems as though Tim Mannah will follow in the footsteps of club legends Luke Burt, Nathan Cayless and Nathan Hindmarsh and be a one club man. As a footballer he is respected not only by the other members of the team, but anyone with involvement in the Parramatta Eels club as a whole.

Jarryd Hayne is an extremely talented footballer - the best on the field for the Parramatta Eels last year. He is a man who can change the outcome of a game on his own and when he is on, he is on. Parramatta are a better football team when Jarryd plays and his contribution to our team is invaluable.

However, I always have misapprehensions about the concept of a dual-captaincy. For me, this appointment suggests that there was not a clear choice of captain.

In order for the dual-captaincy to be a success very clear boundaries need to be set. The concept of a captain is that there is one individual which players look to in order to make decisions, to inspire and to lead. If each captain does not have clear boundaries and truly understand their role, then there may be conflict and mixed messages on the field.

Parramatta have lacked direction over the past few seasons in all aspects of their game. We need a strong leader to take control.

If Parramatta are to succeed, both players are crucial. They need to understand their roles on the field and work together to ensure that the players are moving in the same direction.

This arrangement has the potential to be very successful. I look forward to seeing how it plays out on the field - particularly since some other teams already seem to have the dual-captaincy formula down pat.

Love,

@LadiesWhoLeague