Simply Energy State 16s coach appointed

Experienced development coach Ben Dyer has been appointed as head coach of the Simply Energy WA State 16s Academy for 2019.

Dyer, who has been North Melbourne Football Club’s Development Manager for the past five years, was previously State 16s assistant coach in 2010.

He also has experience as Brisbane Lions’ Academy Head Coach, Claremont Football Club Colts Coach and League Forwards Coach, and Swan Districts Football Club Colts Assistant Coach.

Dyer said he was looking forward to returning to his home State of Western Australia and commencing in the role to help develop WA’s most promising young players.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time in the AFL system but it will be good to come back to WA and be around family again,” he said.

“I think the State 16s is a terrific role and I’m looking forward to being involved. I really enjoy working with this age group because they are so eager to learn.

“Hopefully, having worked with AFL draftees over the last five years, I’ll be able to help future draft prospects be better prepared, so that if they do get picked up by an AFL club they can make a smooth transition and not only survive, but thrive.”

WAFC Executive Manager Talent & Football Operations Scott Baker said Dyer was a great addition to the WA Talent Pathway and welcomed him to the role.

“Ben already has a detailed understanding of Western Australia’s talent pathway, which combined with his player development experience in the AFL system, makes him a terrific fit for this position.

“We want WA to be the best State for talent development and I look forward to working with Ben to strengthen our State Academy program and help achieve this goal.”