30 Sep 2009

Sporting greats Matthew Lloyd and Michael O’Loughlin were appointed as assistant coaches of the Australian Institute of Sport/Australian Football League Academy on Tuesday 29 September.

The former AFL stars bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the football academy in supporting the development of the game.

Lloyd played 270 games for the Essendon Football Club and kicked a total of 926 goals in a 15-season career, the seventh highest tally in the history of the game.

O’Loughlin played a record 303 games for the Sydney Swans Football Club and kicked 521 goals as a key forward.

Both Lloyd and O’Loughlin retired after the 2009 AFL season.

The duo took part in the AIS/AFL Academy camp held in Canberra from 28 September to 2 October 2009, which tested and trialled some of Australia’s best young football talent.

O’Loughlin will play an extended role in helping to lead and develop the AFL’s Indigenous program, as well as assisting with its high performance and talent programs.

AIS Director Professor Peter Fricker welcomed the appointments and acknowledged O’Loughlin and Lloyd’s valuable experience.

‘The AIS is delighted with these appointments. The personal qualities and expertise of Matthew and Michael will provide a significant contribution to AFL — particularly in respect of player development,’  Fricker said.

Lloyd is excited by the opportunity to assist in the development of the next generation of AFL players.

‘After 15 seasons at the Essendon Football Club I believe I’m well placed to assist young men with not only their football development but to help them become better people,’ Lloyd said.

O’Loughlin is looking forward to the next stage of his career with the AFL and developing young players.

‘After 15 years at the Sydney Swans I’m really pleased I can continue my involvement in Australian Football in a meaningful way,’ he said.

‘I’m very excited about contributing to the development of AFL talent, as well as engaging communities and people who may be new to the game.

‘Australian Football has been a huge part of my life and I’m eager to pass on my knowledge and experience, guiding the next generation of players to the elite level.’