The Ottawa Swans Australian Football Club today announced that Matt Powell and Greg Simpson have been named head coaches of the Ottawa Swans Men's and Women's teams respectively.
For the men's team, Matt arrives as the Swans look to build on their first trip to the AFL Ontario Grand Final in club history. Matt brings a long history of playing the game at a high level in both Australia and Canada, as well as an exceptional understanding of tactics and strategy.
Previous coach Rod Frank did an exceptional job taking the team to perennial powerhouse both on and off the field, and Matt will continue to grow this strong foundation.
On the women's side, long time coach Chris Lockhart retired from the Swans at the end of last season. Chris had been head coach of the women since the first season, and had been a player during the Swans early years. In recognition of his dedication and success with the club, the Women's Best and Fairest Award was renamed the "Lockhart Medal" in 2016.
The women have been a dominant force in AFL Quebec since joining the league 2 years ago, a tradition that Greg will step in to uphold. Greg's experience playing and coaching in Australia, as well as his ability to teach new players, will be invaluable to the club going forward.
"We'd like to take the opportunity to thank both Rod and Chris for their hard work and dedication to the club over the years," said Trevor Jamieson, Club President. "Both have been incredibly successful and have positioned the Swans as an example for the rest of the league to follow."
"We look forward to seeing what Matt and Greg are able to bring to the club this year. They have both been long time players with the men's team and have a terrific understanding of the game. We feel they are the best people to lead the clubs to a premiership."
Rod will continue to be involved with the club in other roles. Assistant coaches will be named by the head coaches in the coming weeks.
For more information, please contact swanscomm@gmail.com
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About the Ottawa Swans
The Ottawa Swans Australian Football Club is a leading Ottawa based football club participating as a part of AFL Ontario and AFL Quebec. The club plays home games at the Manotick Polo Club and is made up of both men's and women's teams. The Swans are driven to providing a strong competitive and social environment while growing the game of Australian Football in the nation's capital.
Last Modified on 11/02/2017 04:03