The Western Bulldogs have bolstered their AFL coaching panel for 2023, appointing Stef Martin as a development coach.
It comes after Martin announced his playing retirement last month, following a career spanning 203 games - 57 with Melbourne, 133 for the Brisbane Lions and 13 for the Bulldogs.
Working closely with Brendon Lade (midfield) and Marc Webb (stoppages), Stef will not only provide valuable tuition to young rucks Tim English, Jordon Sweet and Sam Darcy, but will also offer additional support to the wider coaching group in his new part-time development coach position.
This will include an active role with the Club’s State League team, Footscray, where he will be an Assistant Coach of the midfield group on game day.
Executive Director of Football Chris Grant said it was another exciting addition to the Bulldogs football department.
“It’s a really exciting appointment for both Stef and the football club,” Grant said.
“We identified a need for additional support for our coaching group and Stef fits our need perfectly, given his 203-games of AFL experience and relationships with the players.
“Stef always set a great example during his time at the Bulldogs, looking to get the best out of himself, and we look forward to him imparting this approach and his learning onto our players.
“With Stef’s appointment, we’ve now acquired two additional coaches for next season, allowing for player education and efficiency within our program”
Martin joins off-season addition Brendon Lade (assistant coach) as new faces to the Bulldogs’ coaching panel in 2023.
2023 coaching line up
Senior Coach: Luke Beveridge
Backline Coach: Rohan Smith
Midfield Coach: Brendon Lade
Stoppages/Opposition Analysis Coach: Marc Webb
Forward Coach: Matt Spangher
Development Manager: Jamie Maddocks
Development Coach: Travis Varcoe
Development Coach: Stef Martin
