Experienced assistant coach Ash Hansen will depart the Western Bulldogs to take up an opportunity with the Carlton Football Club.

Hansen moves on VU Whitten Oval having left a lasting impression on the playing group for nearly a decade, across multiple areas of coaching.

“It’s with a heavy heart that I leave the Bulldogs, after a memorable nine seasons,” Hansen said.

“I want to thank everyone at the Club, in particular Bevo and the other coaches I’ve worked so closely with, for their wonderful support and friendship during my time here. 

“Those friendships will remain and I’m extremely grateful and proud of what we’ve been able to achieve together.

“The time has come for me to try a new challenge in my coaching journey, and I wish everyone at the Bulldogs success and happiness in the years to come.”

After a 78-game career as a Premiership player with the West Coast Eagles, Hansen joined the Bulldogs ahead of the 2013 season.

He began as development coach in 2013-14, before becoming Footscray’s senior coach for 2015-16, leading the team to the VFL premiership in 2016.

He moved into the AFL assistant coaching space ahead of the 2017 season and has overseen the Bulldogs’ forwards for the past five seasons.

“Ash has been a loyal, dedicated and extremely talented member of our coaching ranks for an extended period, and we’re grateful for his contribution to the Club,” said Bulldogs’ senior coach Luke Beveridge.

“We’re disappointed to lose someone like Ash, but we understand his want to build on his coaching experience.

“Good people help make great organisations, and we’re thankful to Ash for all of his hard work and commitment to the Bulldogs.”

The Bulldogs now have vacancies for two assistant coaching roles to add to its football department for the 2022 season.