West Coast Eagles premiership coach John Worsfold to return to club as Head of Football

West Coast great John Worsfold has returned to the club in an official capacity for the first time in more than a decade after being named the Eagles’ head of football.

The dual premiership captain and 2006 premiership coach to take up the role which will cover the AFL, AFLW and WAFL programs, re-joining the club where he played 209 games between 1987 and 1998.

It will be Worsfold’s first official role at the Eagles since he ended his club record-breaking 281-game tenure as coach in 2013.

The West Australian revealed in August that the Eagles were targeted for a spot on the board to replace outgoing chair Paul Fitzpatrick but he instead will take a position in their football department.

Among Worsfold’s responsibilities will be coaching structure as well as development, performance and culture.

“We are excited to see John re-join the club in a role which we believe will be significant across our football programs. His coaching and football experience will provide vital assistance, leadership and support for our AFL, AFLW and WAFL teams,” CEO Don Pyke said.

“We have a fresh and exciting group of leaders within our football programs and the opportunity to add someone with John’s experience is significant as we move towards future success.”

Worsfold, who has spent nearly four years as general manager of people and culture at the ASX-listed Emeco Group, will commence the new position from November 4 ahead of the start of pre-season later that month.

He also previously coached Essendon in 107 games between 2016 and 2020.

“I am excited to be back at the West Coast Eagles as the club strives to progress into the next era of on-field success across all competitions,” Worsfold said.

“I have been fortunate to learn a lot in my time and role at Emeco group that has added to my AFL leadership experience. It will be an exciting period to work with some outstanding leaders across all competitions.”

It comes as the Eagles’ continue a significant shift in their football department, with former Richmond assistant Andrew McQualter signing a three-year deal to coach the club after 10 wins in three seasons.

Premiership captain Shannon Hurn has returned as a development coach in charge of game fundamentals, while development manager Steve Trewhella has been moved to the role as football manager of their WAFL program.

McQualter is also putting together his coaching group, with caretaker coach Jarrad Schofield’s future still unclear.