In a move that has sent waves of excitement throughout the NRL community, Canberra Raiders Head Coach Ricky Stuart has officially announced that Jack Wighton will take on a new and prestigious role within the club โ a decision being hailed as โthe best news we could hope forโ by fans, teammates, and NRL pundits alike.
Wighton, 32, will step into the role of Club Captain, marking a monumental moment in his already distinguished career. The announcement was made during a special press conference held at Raiders HQ, where Stuart praised Wighton’s leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the Green Machine over the past decade.
> โJack has always been a leader in this club โ both on and off the field,โ said Stuart. โThis isnโt just a reward for his talent, itโs recognition of the heart, passion, and loyalty heโs shown the Raiders since day one.โ
The decision comes at a pivotal time for the Raiders, who are preparing for a major rebuild heading into the 2026 season. With several senior players retiring or moving on, Wightonโs appointment is seen as a stabilising force โ someone who embodies the grit, culture, and fighting spirit that Canberra is known for.
Wighton, who recently returned to the club after a brief stint with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, said he was โhumbled and honouredโ by the trust shown in him.
> โThis club means everything to me. To lead the boys out every week wearing the green jersey โ itโs more than just a job, itโs a privilege,โ Wighton said. โIโve grown up here, Iโve made my best memories here, and now I get to give back in the best way I know how.โ
A Fan-Favourite Turned Inspirational Leader
Jack Wighton has long been a favourite among Canberra fans, known for his hard-running style, clutch plays, and never-say-die attitude. Debuting in 2012, heโs since notched over 200 appearances for the Raiders and was a central figure in their thrilling run to the 2019 Grand Final.
Although he temporarily stepped away from representative duties and left the Raiders in 2024, his return in 2025 marked a turning point โ both for his career and for the club.
The NRL Community Responds
Social media erupted within minutes of the announcement, with former players, analysts, and supporters from across the league congratulating Wighton and praising Ricky Stuartโs decision.
> โJack Wighton as captain is a masterstroke. He bleeds green. The Raiders just got their heart and soul back,โ tweeted former NRL great Corey Parker.
The NRL itself issued a statement acknowledging Wightonโs appointment, calling it โa milestone moment for a player who has given so much to the game.โ
Looking Ahead
With Wighton now wearing the captainโs armband, fans are hopeful the Raiders can build on the solid foundations of 2025 and push toward a top-four finish in 2026. His leadership is expected to help guide a young, hungry squad filled with rising stars and raw potential.
If todayโs announcement is any indication, the Canberra Raiders are entering a new era โ one fueled by passion, pride, and a deep belief
that the best is yet to come.
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