Matthew Knights named as Tasmania Devils academy coach

Ex-Essendon coach Matthew Knights has landed a role at the AFL’s 19th team. Here’s where he fits in and why the Tasmania Devils are excited by his appointment.

Matthew Knights has taken on a role with the Tasmania Devils. Photo: Tasmania FC.

Former Essendon coach Matthew Knights is joining the Tasmania Devils.

On Wednesday morning, the club announced the appointment of Knights as its inaugural academy development coach, joining the AFL’s 19th team from West Coast where he had recently worked as a forwards coach.

Knights, who started in the role this week, expressed his excitement to work with the state’s rising talent.

“The build of Tasmania Football Club is such an exciting thing to be a part of. To have the opportunity to contribute to the development of our athletes and our inaugural list build comes with great potential and responsibility,” he said.

“I am so impressed with what I have seen so far and am looking forward to commence working with athletes as we build Tasmania Football Club Academy.”

“This opportunity feels like a culmination of my skills and experience throughout my career to date. I will be making sure to draw upon all of my experiences, working alongside the existing Devils team and broader football ecosystem to get great outcomes for the club and our athletes.”

Devils head of football operations Aaron Pidgeon hailed Knights’ arrival.

“Matthew is a leading development coach in the AFL, and his appointment is a real coupe for our club and more importantly, athletes that will be a part of our club now and into the future,” he said.

“Matthew is extremely well regarded across the system. Not only for his skills, but also his exceptional ability to develop strong relationships.

“The development of talent across Tasmania and attraction of talent nationally is a key ingredient to the success of our football club. Matthew’s skills will be instrumental in the establishment and operation of Tasmania Football Club Academy.”

Originally published as Matthew Knights named as Tasmania Devils academy coach