Essendon VFL coach Dale Tapping dies after a battle with cancer

A long-time AFL coach lost his cancer battle on Tuesday and has been universally praised for his impact on the game.

Dale Tapping has been remembered as a man of “outstanding character and integrity” after the Essendon VFL coach died on Tuesday morning after battle with myeloma, an aggressive form of blood cancer.

Tapping contracted the disease in January of 2023 but was supported through his battle by the Bombers and made VFL senior coach in 2024, having served as an AFL assistant coach at the club since 2021.

Despite his fight to overcome the disease, Tapping died surrounded by his family, aged 59.

“Dale was an outstanding coach, but his true legacy lies in the profound impact he had on players and staff personally,” Essendon AFL senior coach Brad Scott said.

“His dedication to their growth – both on and off the field – along with his genuine love for seeing people succeed were qualities admired by all.

“It was a privilege to have coached with him, and his legacy at the club will endure through the players and staff he mentored throughout his career. Dale will be deeply missed by the AFL industry and everyone at the Bombers.

The Essendon Football Club is in mourning after the passing of VFL Senior Coach Dale Tapping on Tuesday morning.

A universally loved football person, Tapping bravely fought Myeloma, a form of blood cancer, for over two years.

Rest in peace, Tapps ❤️

— Essendon FC (@essendonfc) February 3, 2025

“Our thoughts are with his wife Kellie and children Summer and Mason who have shown incredible strength throughout this difficult time.”

Essendon president David Barham said Tapping had left an indelible mark on the club.

“On behalf of everyone at the Essendon Football Club, we are deeply saddened by his loss,” he said.

“Dale was a man of impeccable character who was universally loved and respected by those who were lucky enough to have crossed paths with him over his 28 years in the football industry.

“Our club’s thoughts are with his wife Kellie, children Summer and Mason and the extended Tapping family at this most challenging of times.

“He has left a lasting impact on the Essendon Football Club and across the broader football community and will be remembered as a selfless individual whose passion and care for people and the game was evident in everything he did.”

Tapping worked in football for more than 28 year and was VFL Coach of the Year in 2016 while at Collingwood.

He began his coaching career at local level with roles at Old Brighton and Old Scotch in the VAFA and worked at the Brisbane Lions before joining the Bombers.

Originally published as Essendon VFL coach Dale Tapping dies after a battle with cancer