Dyson Heppell is now officially at the KGM Centre, with the 253-gamer settling into his new role as Development Coach for the black and white…

Dyson Heppell is now officially at the KGM Centre, with the 253-gamer settling into his new role as Development Coach for the black and white…

Dyson Heppell is now officially at the KGM Centre, and with that arrival comes a powerful sense of continuity, leadership, and renewed purpose for the black and white. The former Essendon captain and 253-game veteran has settled into his new role as Development Coach, marking the beginning of an exciting chapter both for Heppell and the club he now serves from the coaching ranks.

 

Widely respected across the AFL for his professionalism, resilience, and football intelligence, Heppell’s transition into development coaching feels both natural and timely. Throughout his decorated playing career, he was known not only for his toughness and consistency on the field, but also for the standards he set off it. Those same qualities now form the foundation of his work at the KGM Centre, where he is already immersing himself in the day-to-day growth of the club’s emerging talent.

 

For the black and white, Heppell’s appointment is a strategic investment in the future. Development coaching is about more than skills and drills; it is about shaping habits, mindset, and identity. Few are better equipped for that responsibility than a player who experienced the highs and lows of AFL football, captained through challenging periods, and earned respect through action rather than words. Young players walking through the doors of the KGM Centre now have daily access to someone who truly understands what it takes to build a long, sustainable career at the elite level.

 

Heppell’s early focus has been on connection and clarity. By building strong relationships with players, he aims to create an environment where learning is constant and accountability is embraced. His message is simple but powerful: talent opens the door, but work ethic, consistency, and humility determine how long you stay. These are lessons forged over 253 games of hard-earned experience, and they resonate strongly within a developing list hungry for growth.

 

The move also represents a meaningful personal evolution for Heppell. Stepping into coaching allows him to remain close to the game he loves while influencing it in a new way. Rather than leading from the front with the ball in hand, he now leads through guidance, feedback, and example. His presence around the club has already added a calm authority and a player-first perspective that complements the existing coaching group.

 

As the black and white continue to shape their next era, Dyson Heppell’s arrival at the KGM Centre stands as a symbol of intent. This is about building strong footballers, but also strong people who understand the responsibility of wearing the jumper. With a respected 253-gamer now dedicated to development, the future pathway looks clearer, more connected, and firmly grounded in the values that define the club.