I recall suggesting he could captain and being pilloried for it. I still think he could have.I know it was funny at the time, but I reckon 60-70% of AFL players have had moments of shitting themselves in their career.
Houli wasn't (or didn't end up being) soft and was an excellent player that I was always disappointed we never gave more of a chance (even at the time).
In the end he's someone I'm really happy for given his success.