MPNFL: Former Carlton player Paul McCormack appointed coach of Edi-Asp

After interviewing “a Cox Plate field” of candidates, Edithvale-Aspendale have appointed an EFNL premiership coach and former Carlton player.

Paul McCormack will coach Edi-Asp in the MPNFL. Picture: Stuart Milligan

Edithvale Aspendale was flattered by the calibre of candidates who applied for its senior coaching position.

There were rising stars, proven performers and greats of the local competition.

But, after an “intensive and thorough process”, Paul McCormack stood out.

The Bayswater premiership coach ticked all the right boxes for the success-hungry Eagles, who swooped in and appointed him.

The Eagles want to soar again after several lean seasons in MPNFL Division 1.

“In the end it was hard to go past his experience, connection with the community and his proven record of developing young talent,” Edi-Asp vice president Aaron Martello said.

Paul McCormack coaching Old Brighton in the VAFA.

McCormack’s credentials speak for themselves, having coached with great success at TAC Cup, Eastern Football League and A grade VAFA level.

He has also overseen the highly successful Elite Sports Program at Parkdale Secondary College, culminating in five state titles.

McCormack says he’s excited by the challenge of lifting Edi-Asp.

New Edi-Asp coach Paul McCormack.

He knows what it takes to be successful, having coached Bayswater to the 2016 EFNL Division 2 premiership, and he believes Edi Asp have a lot going for them.

“I had four good years at Bayswater in the Eastern footy league and we got up to first divvy,” McCormack said.

“I think Edi are well set off the field, they’ve got a great committee, lots of sponsors and are building new club rooms next year so they’re strong off the field and it gives you a chance to have success on the field, hopefully sustained success.

“That’s the key, sustained success.’’

McCormack played 14 games for Carlton betwen 1992-94, rising to league ranks after being part of Dandenong’s 1991 VFA premiership.

As a senior coach, he guided East Ringwood to two preliminary finals, took Old Brighton to a prelim final and did great things at Bayswater.

Martello said McCormack’s proven track record for uniting clubs was exciting.

“I did a lot of homework on him,’’ Martello said.

Matt Rendell.

“I rang blokes who knew him...and one of the things they said is he will bring the whole club along. He will change the club for the next 15 years.

“He sets the culture and demands high standards.

“But it’s just his connection with the community, how he can bring the community together.’’

McCormack is prepared to take small but important steps to start off with at Edi-Asp.

“Our first step is to get all the boys together and have a really good shot at a great pre season,’’ he said.

“And get all the boys on the one page, playing the way we want to play.’’

McCormack said former AFL ruckman and recruiter Matt Rendell would have an informal role at Edi-Asp next season.

“Matty has been a really good mentor for me over the years,’’ he said.

“I taught both his sons at our school. He will help shape the club.’’