New players Damien Cook and Clint Gutherson named St George Illawarra co-captains

St George Illawarra has turned to experienced new faces to lead the club in 2025, with Damien Cook and Clint Gutherson named the club’s co-captains.

The duo were moved on from South Sydney and Parramatta respectively at the end of 2024, and Dragons coach Shane Flanagan said they had been “impressive in every facet” since joining the club in November.

They replace Ben Hunt, who was released from the final year of his contract last October and has joined the Brisbane Broncos.

“The difference each has made around the group with their professionalism, leadership, competitiveness, preparation and dedication has been obvious from day one and having them share the captaincy is a clear choice,” Flanagan said.

“Each will bring slightly different things, but there’s no questioning the positive impact each has made already.”

Gutherson, 30, was captain of the Eels for seven seasons, including last year, and was moved on by new coach Jason Ryles after playing 206 of his 211 games at the club.

Cook, 33, was the victim of a salary cap squeeze at the Rabbitohs and will captain the club where he made his NRL debut in 2013.

Dragons chief executive Ryan Webb welcomed the pair’s new roles.

“With Clint and Damien stepping into formal captaincy roles, I feel the club will be well served this year in terms of leadership around the group and I look forward to seeing that continue to develop as we head into the season.” Webb said.