How Brad Cox-Goodyer will fit in for North Launceston with AFL Tas role

A Tasmanian State League star has landed a new role with AFL Tasmania and it’s set to have a flow on effect for a competition powerhouse. Here’s what we know.

Brad Cox-Goodyer in action.

A full-time opportunity with AFL Tasmania has meant TSL powerhouse North Launceston is on the lookout for a new senior coach.

Tasmanian star Brad Cox-Goodyer has been appointed as the new talent pathways skill acquisition coach which will see him work with 12 to 15-year-old boys and girls to develop their skills in the state’s new regional academies.

He joins the state’s governing body in the role after a decorated playing career and will continue to be based in Launceston.

“Cox-Goodyer’s strong football knowledge and background in skill development of young players, made him a standout candidate for the role,” AFL Tasmania’s statement said.

“The role has a skill acquisition focus in driving fun and fulfilling academy programs, working with the potential Tasmanian AFL and AFLW players of tomorrow.”

Cox-Goodyer said he was keen to help grow the state’s talent pool.

“For me, getting involved in elite talent pathways has been something I’ve had an interest in for a while now,” he said.

“Working with that early elite age is a new step forward for Tasmania, and I will be coming into a new space myself. So, I’ll be a sponge – soaking up as much as I can – and working to develop in line with the fundamental skills of the game, as they advance.”

Head of AFL Tasmania Damian Gill described Gill as the “perfect fit”.

“We see Brad as a highly talented coach who is a perfect fit for the skill development focus in this role and in working to support our excited youngsters finding their way in the game,” he said.

“Brad’s playing exploits are well known to Tasmanians from his extraordinary TSL career and fingers crossed he can teach a few of our young players the ability to roost them from beyond the arc as well as he has done across the last decade.”

Given his new role, North Launceston confirmed on Tuesday morning their star coach would be standing down from the head coaching role.

He will remain as a player for the final season of the TSL.

“Over the past three seasons Brad has successfully led us through a rebuild period that was full of challenges requiring commitment above and beyond,” the club said.

“The club is indebted to Brad who combined all his management craft with his coaching leadership qualities in guiding us through a period where 10 changes to a senior team week in week out was not unusual resulting in over 20 players making their senior debut in consecutive seasons.

“We all wish Brad future success and job satisfaction helping the next generation of footballers following their dreams of one day representing Tasmania in the AFL.”

Cox-Goodyer started the role on February 26.