Widnes have appointed a four-man leadership group for 2017 following the departure of Kevin Brown to Warrington.
The Vikings will be led by co-captains Chris Houston and Joe Mellor, while Aaron Heremaia and Tom Gilmore have been made vice-captains, who all emerged from a poll of players and coaches.
Houston is set to take sole charge in the early part of the Super League season with Mellor set to spend six weeks on the sidelines with a knee injury.
The decision follows head coach Denis Betts giving his players and coaches the opportunity to nominate players who they feel have the inspirational leadership qualities to lead the club.
“Widnes Vikings has strong leadership qualities across the team so I canvassed the views of our players and coaches in making this decision,” said Betts.
“The leadership group has great character, lots of understanding and are inspirational in their actions. We have a fantastic team of players who want to work hard, enjoy being here and aspire for success. I’m excited for the season ahead.”
Co-captain Houston added: “I have been involved in leadership roles throughout my career and I am looking forward to building on this experience at Widnes Vikings.
“I want to lead by example – playing and training well, and always giving it my all. The club has some outstanding young players and I’m looking forward to supporting them.”
Widnes begin their Super League season with a home fixture against Huddersfield Giants on February 10.
