Hartlepool United is delighted to confirm that Jack Hunter has been appointed Club Captain ahead of the 2026/27 National League season, with Reiss McNally named as Vice-Captain.
Head Coach Lee Clark has appointed the pair to lead the squad into the new campaign ahead of Saturday’s National League opener against Barrow.
Hunter takes on the captaincy after making 64 appearances across all competitions since arriving at Victoria Park in June 2024. The 28-year-old has established himself as a key figure in midfield while also demonstrating his versatility by operating at centre-back when called upon.
The appointment follows Hunter’s recent contract extension, which will keep him at the Club until at least the summer of 2027.
McNally has been named Vice-Captain after an impressive first season at Pools. The defender made 21 National League appearances, scored three goals and quickly established himself as an important figure both on and off the pitch following his arrival from Kidderminster Harriers.
Speaking after being appointed Club Captain, Jack Hunter said: “It’s a huge honour to be named captain of Hartlepool United and one I’m incredibly proud to accept.
“Growing up in the North East, you always knew the size of this football club and what it means to its supporters. Since I came here, they’ve been brilliant with me and it’s a privilege to have the opportunity to lead the team.
“We’ve got a really good group in the dressing room. There are experienced lads who know this level inside out, new players who have settled in quickly and younger players who are eager to learn. Reiss and I might have the armbands, but there are plenty of leaders within this squad and everyone has a part to play over the course of the season.
“For me, wearing the armband doesn’t change anything. I’ll keep trying to lead by example every day, on and off the pitch, and do everything I can to help the team.
“The manager and his staff have been clear about what they expect from us and we’ve all bought into that. Now it’s about showing that on the pitch, working hard for one another and giving our supporters a team they can be proud of.”
Lee Clark, First Team Head Coach at Hartlepool United, said: “When you’re choosing a captain, the first thing you look for is the respect of the dressing room. Jack has that because of the way he goes about his work every single day. He doesn’t need to make big speeches or be the loudest voice in the room. He leads by what he does.
“He trains properly, prepares properly and gives absolutely everything. He’s honest, dependable and understands what it means to represent this football club. Those are the qualities you want in your captain.
“Reiss is another player who leads by example on and off the pitch. Since arriving at the Club last summer, he’s earned the respect of everyone around him and he’ll play an important role alongside Jack throughout the season.
“We’ve added a lot of new players this summer and we’ve also got some talented young lads coming through. Strong leadership is vital because those senior players help set the standards every day and show others what’s expected.
“The captaincy doesn’t change who Jack is because he’s been a leader from the moment I walked through the door. This appointment recognises that and I’m confident he’ll do an outstanding job for this football club.”
The Club can also confirm its first-team squad numbers for the 2026/27 season.
Hartlepool United squad numbers – 2026/27
1 – Max Merrick
2 – Jay Benn
3 – Cameron John
4 – Jack Hunter (Captain)
5 – Max Kouogun
6 – Reiss McNally (Vice-Captain)
7 – Brooklyn Ilunga
8 – Jamie Miley
9 – Jordan Hugill
10 – Will Harris
11 – Luke Charman
12 – Neo Eccleston
14 – Nathan Sheron
15 – Charlie Penman
17 – Jack Nolan
18 – Owen Hampson
19 – Chris Popov
20 – Josh Donaldson
21 – Charlie Thornton
22 – Campbell Darcy
23 – Noah Gilbraith
24 – Jacob Penprase
25 – Michael Maidens
26 – Harry Conyard
27 – Liam Gibson
28 – Corey McKeown
29 – Kian Foreman
30 – Terry Bondo
32 – Nathan Fisher
40 – Adam Smith
