Recently-retired Geelong and Collingwood player Travis Varcoe has joined the Western Bulldogs as an AFL development coach for the 2021 season.

Varcoe enjoyed a stellar 15-year career with the Cats and the Magpies, playing 230 games before retiring at the end of the 2020 season.

He arrives at VU Whitten Oval after the departure of Jordan Russell, who joined North Melbourne’s coaching staff earlier this month.

Varcoe will join the Club’s AFL development coaching team, led by Jamie Maddocks, with his primary role focussing on working with the Club’s exciting up-and-coming talent.

As part of the role, he will also act as a mentor to newly-recruited Indigenous youngster Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, and will be involved in the Club’s Reconciliation Action Plan activities and Western Bulldogs Community Foundation programs.

“I’m rapt with this opportunity to join the Bulldogs in an exciting new role,” Varcoe said.

“After a long time in the game as a player, I believe I have plenty to offer in guiding the players and tapping into the experience I’ve developed, as well as working with Bevo and the other coaches.

“Watching from afar, I’ve been impressed with the development of the Bulldogs’ young playing list.  They have some great talent at their disposal, and I’m excited to play my part as they continue their growth.

“I’m especially looking forward to working with Jamarra, and getting involved in the Club’s Indigenous and community programming.  I know their work in that space is genuine, and I believe I can strengthen that even further.”

Varcoe’s personal story of family and friendship was told through the design of Collingwood’s 2019 Indigenous guernsey.

“We’re thrilled to have someone of Travis’ experience and standing in the game as a new member of our coaching team,” said Bulldogs’ Head of Football, Chris Grant.

“Travis brings so many strong qualities to the role which will benefit our players, as well as the other coaches.

“To be able to combine the football aspect of his role with the incredible work the Club is doing in the Indigenous space and in the community, is something which will benefit us greatly.”

The Bulldogs will look to separately appoint a VFL coach for the 2021 season, with the search for that position ongoing.