First-year coach Matt Cannard expands Crocodiles bench with Mark McLean, Richard Tambling

NEW Southern Districts coach Matt Cannard has appointed former star Mark McLean and Richmond and Adelaide utility Richard Tambling as his assistants

Districts coach Matt Cannard, seen here in a development role with Kitione Kanalagi and Steven Tipungwuti, has always supported rising juniors.

NEW Southern Districts coach Matt Cannard has appointed former star Mark McLean and Richmond and Adelaide utility Richard Tambling as his assistants.

Both men will combine coaching with playing as Cannard looks to get the NTFL Crocodiles into the finals in the 2020-21 Premier League season.

“We’re pretty fortunate to have Mark come back on board – I’m looking forward to working with him and I know Mark is keen,’’ Cannard said.

“Richard Tambling is another one joining the coaching team and there are a few others I’ve got in mind who I haven’t confirmed yet.’’

Cannard was handed the coaching reins by the long-serving Shannon Rusca after the Crocodiles completed another top-three finish in the 2019-20 competition.

“I’m hoping most of the big names want to come back and they’ve certainly indicated they want to,” he said.

“All credit to Shannon who got them to the club and made them important players for us.

“Our big focus will always be to look after our locals and give them more opportunities, so it’s also a good time for them to step up to senior footy.”

Cannard is looking forward to his first season as senior coach after working with Districts’ underage sides and various development squads.

“It’s pretty exciting, even though I know it will have its ups and downs,” he said.