The Western Bulldogs today announced that Chris Grant is set to join the Club’s Board of Directors in the capacity of Football Director, later this year.
 
A Bulldogs Hall-of Famer, Grant has agreed to nominate for the position that is to be vacated by long term Board Director and passionate Bulldog, Henry Jolson QC, who will retire in December.
 
Club President David Smorgon said that Grant would be a significant asset to the Bulldogs especially in the key position of Football Director.
 
“Chris’ experience, leadership and love of our Club make him an impressive candidate for Football Director,” Smorgon said today.
 
“Chris is imminently qualified to step into this critical role and the Board is absolutely thrilled that Chris has agreed to nominate for the position.”
 
A former Club Captain, Grant played 341 games for the Dogs in a stellar career that spanned 18 seasons.
 
Three-time All Australian during his time at the Kennel as well as dual recipient of the Charles Sutton Medal for the Bulldogs’ best and fairest player, Grant was also named at half forward in the Bulldogs Team of the Century.
 
In recent years Grant has forged a successful career in the media off the field, providing expert comments on ABC Grandstand Sport. Grant received the Most Outstanding Special Commentator award at this year’s Australian Football Media Association (AFMA) Awards in acknowledgement of this role.
 
A key player on the Western Bulldogs’ Coach Selection Sub-Committee that was convened in August to identify the Club’s new Senior Coach in August, Grant is keen to take his involvement with the Club in a new and exciting direction.
 
“My recent off-field involvement with the Bulldogs has renewed my interest in getting more involved in supporting the Club to be the best, most competitive and successful it can be,” Grant said today.
 
“The Club has progressed so far, both on and off field and is now an incredibly professional organisation.
 
“I don’t think we have ever been better placed to achieve long term sustainable success and I am thrilled to be able to assist if the Members see fit to support my nomination to join the Board.”
 
Bulldogs Coach, Brendan McCartney said today that Grant’s football nous and knowledge of the game would be a significant asset to the Club, especially the Football Department.
 
“Chris is a great leader who not only understands what it takes to be fiercely competitive but also how important it is to pull his own weight and be a part of the Team. His knowledge and integrity will be a fantastic addition to the Club - both on and off the field.
 
Current Board Director Gaye Hamilton, Chairman of SpiritWest Advisory Board and Victoria University Advisory Board Member will also re-stand for her position as Community Director.
 
“Gaye has been an important asset to the Board at both a commercial and community level.   A committed advocate for Melbourne’s West - Gaye’s experience and range of Directorships in the region add great value to the Club,” Smorgon said.
 
Smorgon also paid tribute to outgoing Director Henry Jolson acknowledging his significant contribution to the Club.
 
“Henry’s legal expertise has been a critical asset to the Board and the organisation as a whole - his support in a range of legal matters including the AFL Tribunal has been invaluable,” Smorgon said.
 
“Henry’s commitment to supporting peace and harmony in our community must also be highlighted and commended. A passionate community advocate, Henry will be long remembered for his leadership in forging the wonderful partnership between the Western Bulldogs and the 'AFL Peace Team.'
 
“We wish Henry the very best and look forward to still seeing him around the Kennel in the future.”