Armstrong family legacy continues at Perth Demons

Steven Armstrong will continue a remarkable family legacy by becoming senior coach of Perth Football Club ahead of the 2027 Sullivan Logistics WAFL season.

The West Coast premiership player and proud Demons product will follow in the footsteps of his father Gary and grandfather Ken who both coached the club.

Ken is a two-time premiership coach at Perth, in 1976 and ’77, to go with another as a player in 1955, while Gary coached the club in 1999 and 2000.

The 42-year-old, who has served a 15-year coaching apprenticeship in various roles across the competition, said it was “incredibly special” to return to the club he tallied 97 senior appearances for.

“Perth Football Club has always meant a lot to me, so to have the opportunity to return and lead the Demons is incredibly special,” Armstrong told the club website.

“I understand what this club means to its people, its members and everyone who loves the red and the black, and I don’t take the responsibility lightly.”

Armstrong said he was looking forward to building on the Demon’s progress from the last couple of seasons, which included back-to-back finals appearances.

“The playing group has made real progress over the past two seasons, and there’s a strong foundation to build on,” he said.

“My focus will be on bringing our senior players and emerging young talent together, developing our players both on and off the field, and creating an environment built on strong relationships, accountability and a genuine desire to succeed.

“We want to keep moving this club forward, play competitive and consistent football, and give our members and supporters a team they can be proud of. I’m excited by the opportunity ahead and can’t wait to get started.”

Armstrong is one of four new coaching appointments in the WAFL with East Fremantle naming favourite son Liam Anthony as coach recently, Falcons champion and South Fremantle premiership coach Todd Curley back at West Perth and Geoff Valentine returning to Peel Thunder’s coaching position to replace GWS-bound two-time premiership mentor Adam Read.