News
Former Essendon Captain Dyson Heppell and experienced coach and former player Greg Stafford have joined Collingwood.
Former Essendon Captain Dyson Heppell has joined Collingwood as a Development Coach.
Heppell brings a wealth of leadership and football experience to the Pies, having played 253 games across 14 seasons for the Bombers, including six as Captain.
After retiring from AFL football at the end of the 2024 season, Heppell spent this past year playing for Port Melbourne’s VFL side and Leongatha in the Gippsland League.
With an illustrious playing career, which includes an All-Australian selection in 2014, AFL Rising Star Award and a Crichton Medal for Essendon’s best and fairest player, Heppell now turns his focus to coaching and developing Collingwood’s up-and-coming talent.
Heppell will commence his role when training resumes in January.
In other news, the Club has also welcomed Greg Stafford to its coaching team as a ruck coach.
Stafford has previously worked at Melbourne Football Club for 11 seasons, including in 2021 when the Demons claimed the Premiership, overseeing the development of up-and-coming rucks.
Stafford’s football experience expands further than coaching, having played 204 AFL matches with Sydney and Richmond.
EGM of Football Charlie Gardiner said the Club was thrilled to acquire the pair who are so universally respected throughout the league.
“Dyson is a fantastic addition to our coaching team and football department. His experiences as a player, including his knowledge around leadership, will be a valuable asset to our playing group,” Gardiner said.
“Working predominantly with our upcoming talent, Dyson’s ability to form strong relationships and understand the needs of players will allow him to be influential and mentor our emerging talent.
“Greg has over 20 years of football experience and has a track record of developing talented players. He will play a pivotal role in developing our current and future rucks.
“We are excited to welcome such a high-calibre people to Collingwood and we look forward to seeing the impact Dyson and Greg can have throughout our Club.”
