THE CASEY Demons have appointed a new VFL Senior Coach, elevating Taylor Whitford to the role for the 2023 season.
Whitford, who has spent the past two seasons as the Demons’ Senior Assistant Coach, brings a wealth of experience to the top job, having also coached North Launceston in the Tasmanian State League.
It was here he led the Bombers to consecutive premierships in 2018 and 2019 – two of five he achieved at the club, also captaining successful 2015 and 2017 campaigns.
Whitford added to his coaching achievements this season, playing a pivotal role in Casey’s drought-breaking VFL premiership victory over Southport.
GM of AFL Football Operations Marcus Wagner said the club was thrilled to appoint one of Casey’s own to the role.
“After a thorough process, we had no hesitation in offering Taylor the senior coaching role, with his coaching philosophy, character and values shining through,” he told Melbourne Media.
“Taylor has worked in our men’s VFL program for the past two seasons, while also working with our AFL program on main training days, so has built some really strong relationships with the playing groups.
“This appointment is a testament to the work Taylor has put in since arriving at Casey. We anticipate a seamless transition for the program and look forward to having him officially start in his new role on November 1.”
Whitford, who is a secondary school teacher by trade, was equally as excited to get started.
“It’s an absolute honour to be the next head coach of Casey,” he said.
“I have enjoyed every minute of my past two seasons with the Demons and am really looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead in 2023.
“It’s a great group of players, coaches and staff and I can’t wait to get started.”
Whitford replaces the recently departed Mark Corrigan following his appointment with Geelong VFL.