Xavier Clarke to coach Indigenous All Stars team in Perth exhibition clash next February

A former Ross Lyon protege has been locked in to lead the likes of Michael Walters and Alex Pearce in Perth next year, with Xavier Clarke announced as coach of the Indigenous All Stars for February’s exhibition clash against Fremantle.

Clarke will lead the representative side for the February 15 clash at Optus Stadium, with former Sydney favourite Michael O’Loughlin named the squad’s chairman of selectors.

Having played under Lyon for the latter part of his 105-game career at St Kilda between 2002 and 2008, Clarke - now an assistant at North Melbourne - will help direct fellow Lyon disciples Walters and Pearce in the one-off game against their AFL club.

Dockers recruit Shai Bolton is also likely to feature for the All Stars, pitting him against his new Freo teammates before he’s even played a game in purple.

The game will see O’Loughlin return to Perth, almost two decades after the city was the setting for one of his most iconic career moments.

The Swans great and Australian Football Hall of Fame member booted the winning goal late in the 2006 qualifying final against West Coast, with his celebration in close proximity to members of the Eagles cheer squad at the western end of Subiaco Oval producing one of modern footy’s most memorable images.

“To have a former player of the calibre of Micky lead the selection of this side is fantastic,” AFL social policy and inclusion manager Tanya Hosch said.

“His football record speaks for itself but he has also been an immense leader amongst the Indigenous community and continues to give back to through his work on numerous foundations and through his business.

“He epitomises the on and off field excellence and community spirit that characterises the Indigenous All Stars side and we are thrilled to have him on board leading the selection next year.”