EDFL: Craigieburn appoints Shane Jacobs as new coach

A former Craigieburn best-and-fairest winner will coach the club in 2023 with the Eagles confident of quickly rising up the ladder.

Craigieburn believes it has the right man to re-establish itself as a top division club.

Shane Jacobs has been appointed as the Essendon District Football League club’s third coach in three years.

He replaces Justin Sherman who stood down from the role midway through the 2022 season.

Club president John Perrone said Jacob’s was an exceptional candidate during an “extensive process” to find the new senior mentor.

Perrone believes Jones the capabilities to lead the Eagles back into Premier Division after they were relegated at the end of 2021.

“Shane has got massive aspirations,” he said.

“We had six candidates and each of those had their own qualities. We thought with Shane’s background and experience he would be the next person to guide our club forward.

“He comes back to the club with three straight reserves premierships with Bundoora in the Northern league. He has got fantastic knowledge and will add a lot to our young group.

Craigieburn president John Perrone and new senior coach Shane Jacobs. Photo: Facebook.

“He has his own team of assistants which is great, we’re always excited to add new people into our club.

“Shane is quite genuine and very honest, that’s why we were attracted to him as our coach.”

Jacobs is a former Craigieburn junior playing over 100 games with the Eagles before going onto play in the VFL.

His playing career included eight senior best and fairest including Craigieburn’s own award in 2013.

“It’s always great when you can bring people back to your club,” he said.

“He’s (Jones) has got poise and respect for everyone. We’re already seeing people are thrilled to bring him back.

“At Bundoora he has worked with some terrific people and those experiences will hold him in good stead.”

s04ho932 EDFL Craigieburn versus Avondale Heights at Craigieburn. Shane Jacobs, 18 takes a kick.

Craigieburn found itself in a second straight relegation fight in 2022 after winning just two games for the season.

They eventually finished one game and percentage clear of Sunbury Kangaroos who were eventually relegated to Division 2.

But the Eagles are confident of bouncing back quickly.

“The club has started to re-sign the playing group from last season,” Perrone said.

“And dialogue has started with people we will aim to bring into the club. But we’re only going to bring in what we need.

“We’re looking to elevate as quickly as possible.”