It’s been a whirlwind couple of days for Luke Beveridge, but the task began in earnest on Monday as the Bulldogs’ new senior coach settled into his new surrounds at Victoria University Whitten Oval.
Speaking from his new office on Triple M radio, Beveridge said the priority for his first day was making sure he got around to all the players and coaching staff to introduce himself.
“The crucial thing in this game is we form strong bonds, and they [the players] know their coach is in their corner,” Beveridge said.
“I’m looking forward to getting to know them all.”
While the business of football is serious, Beveridge is keen to ensure that the players get the opportunity to enjoy the lighter moments that emerge across the journey.
“I really think that a bit of fun and humor is crucial in the work environment,” said Beveridge.
Beveridge revealed in the interview that he received a phone call from Chief Executive Simon Garlick last Thursday night confirming his appointment to the senior coach role, after a meeting in which the Club’s board ratified the decision.
The 44-year-old was announced on Friday as the new coach of the Club.
A strong footballing pedigree runs through Beveridge’s veins, his grandfather Jack played in four successive VFL premierships for Collingwood between 1927 and 1930, while father John has been a key figure in St Kilda’s recruiting department for close to three decades.