AFL 2022: Retired Essendon defender Michael Hurley accepts development coaching job at Bombers

Michael Hurley won’t be lost to Essendon despite his distinguished AFL playing career coming to an end this year.

Michael Hurley has accepted a development coaching role at Essendon. Picture: Michael Klein

Retired Bomber Michael Hurley is staying at Essendon in a development coaching role.

The 32-year-old retired at season’s end after playing 194 games and being named an All-Australian defender in 2015 and 2017.

Hurley was one of the game’s best key defenders in his prime but a life-threatening hip infection hastened the end of his career and his round 23 farewell was his only senior appearance in the past two years.

His new development coaching role will see him work predominantly with the club’s first-to-fourth-year players through the Jack Jones Academy.

Michael Hurley will turn his hand to coaching after retiring as a player. Picture: Michael Klein

Hurley spent time mentoring and developing key-position players in the Bombers’ VFL side during his recovery.

“After spending the last 14 years at the club as a player, I’m thrilled to start my next journey as a coach and give back to the club which has given me so much,” Hurley said.

“This is a new and exciting chapter for the club. With Brad (Scott) coming on board as senior coach, I look forward to working with him and the other coaches to drive standards and get the most out of our playing group.

“We have a lot of potential on our list and I am determined to create an environment that allows our developing players to become the best player and people.”