THERE were a couple of worthy candidates but in the end FNQ Bulls coach Peter Tokesi knew Mareeba defender Victor Madrid was the logical choice to lead the club in its debut Queensland State League season next year.

Madrid has captained the Mareeba Bulls for three years in the FNQ Football premier league and Tokesi believes the 27-year-old possesses all the qualities needed to be a successful leader at state level.

"I don’t know him too well but I’ve seen him play," Tokesi said.

"He’s got great leadership ability and is that little bit older and has got good experience.

"And I think it’s fitting as well that we have a Mareeba boy leading the team."

The Mareeba-based side was officially named as the QSL’s newest franchise in October and will run its maiden training session at Cairns’ Endeavour Park tonight.

Madrid is especially looking forward to the Bulls’ first official run, believing the club is capable of making an impact in its debut year.

"It’s a new step we’re taking. I can’t wait to put the boots back on, have a run, see some new faces and meet some new people," Madrid said.

"I think we can do well next year. I definitely think we’ll be competitive but whether we can take that number one spot remains to be seen.

"But we definitely won’t be push-overs. That’s for sure."

Tokesi agrees, setting his targets high for the 2009 QSL season which is expected to kick-off mid-March.

"If we get the players that we want, we’ll be aiming for top four or better," he said.

"I’d be disappointed if we couldn’t do that but it also comes down to things like type of run you get and injuries."

About 40 players are expected to attend tonight’s session with training to be split between Cairns and Mareeba twice a week in the lead-up to Christmas.

Sessions will increase to three times a week after New Year.

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