Recent retiree James Kelly will not be lost to the Bombers after accepting a coaching role with the club.

The 33 year old will join John Worsold’s coaching panel. With Kelly’s role to encompass a strong focus on player development.

Rob Kerr praising James Kelly

Football manager Rob Kerr was obviously delighted the multiple Geelong premiership player has accepted the role to remain at Essendon.

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“James has a rich knowledge of the game, having an AFL career that spanned over 15 years and multiple premierships. In his two years at Essendon he has worked closely with the younger players, he’s played a crucial role in helping develop their game and mentor them on what it takes to extract the most out of their careers.”

Enhancing the reputation

The two seasons as an Essendon player certainly proved fruitful for the veteran. Playing primarily in the back-half, the former Cat performed extremely well. This led to some pundits and fans believing James Kelly should play on again in 2018.

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It was obvious how important his experience and leadership was on-field. Rising Star winner Andrew McGrath has been one player in particular who has been full of praise for the role the 300 gamer has played in helping him transition to playing AFL football.

Other changes

The restructure of the Essendon coaching panel will also see assistant Hayden Skipworth move from forward line duties into midfield. And VFL coach Paul Corrigan will take over the forward line at senior level.

One of the most notable changes will be the absence of Guy McKenna, who has chosen to leave the AFL industry all together by taking a role with Cricket Victoria.

After a difficult few seasons the Bombers played finals football in 2017. And will be hoping to build on this platform in 2018.

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Having the calibre of James Kelly in the coaching box may well prove to be one of Essendon’s best off-field decisions.

by Liam Sheedy – contributor

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