The Western Bulldogs have made changes to the coaching structure for 2015, headlined by Chris Maple’s appointment as Head of Development.
After six years as Development Manager and a successful maiden season in the VFL - culminating in a premiership, Chris Maple will lead the Club’s player development program in 2015.
GM, Football Graham Lowe said Maple will be responsible for the overall player development strategy — with a focus on new and emerging AFL players.
“Chris is an extremely valuable person at this football Club, and it’s fitting he continues to use his key strengths in the development and improvement of our younger players,” Lowe said.
Maple, awarded the 2013 Development Coach of the Year award by AFL Coaches Association said while the role will include more strategic responsibilities, his core objectives will remain the same.
“My remit is to help our younger players reach their potential, so nothing has changed from that viewpoint,” Maple said.
“We have a great opportunity at this Club to work with a talented group of young people, but also a great responsibility that they are given the right support and guidance to become well-rounded AFL players.”
The Club also announced Development Coach Ashley Hansen as VFL Coach for season 2015.
Lowe said Hansen, a former West Coast premiership player, was a valuable contributor to Footscray’s premiership success as midfield coach and will take the reins as Development and VFL Coach this week.
“Ashley is a highly skilled and capable young coach and he is looking forward to continuing the great work Chris has produced over the past twelve months,” Lowe said.
The Club has bolstered its midfield coaching line with Joel Corey to work alongside Steven King as Assistant Coach, focussing on stoppage systems. King will continue as Assistant Coach (midfield).
Daniel Giansiracusa has been named Assistant Coach (forwards), while former teammate Rohan Smith will enter his third season in 2015 as Assistant Coach (backs).
Brett Montgomery will continue his role as Senior Assistant, while Craig Jennings has been appointed Opposition Analyst.
Jennings spent ten years at Essendon in a similar role where he built a strong reputation in the industry for his game insights.
