RECENTLY retired Melbourne player Jordan Lewis will continue with the club in an off-field capacity for the 2020 season.
The decorated four-time premiership player has accepted a part-time coaching role, which will see him work with the playing group on their kicking skills, as well as help with the development of the younger players on the list.
Lewis, who will commence with the Demons in the coming weeks, said he was excited about the new opportunity and the chance to pass on his knowledge.
“When I decided to retire, I still wanted to have a connection with the Melbourne Football Club,” he told Melbourne Media.
“We were able to work out a role that would work for both the club and myself, in terms of not conflicting with my media commitments, but also ensuring I will be available at the club to help develop an area that we think is important.
“I will be heavily involved in the kicking program. People think kicking is solely technical but there are so many other elements, so hopefully we can teach the players to make better decisions, or easier decisions, so that the technical side becomes easier.”
The 33-year-old’s extensive football knowledge will also allow him to work closely with the Demons’ youngsters.
After 15 AFL seasons, including the past three at Melbourne, he will aim to relay some of his experience, fast tracking the group’s understanding of the game at the top level.
Highly regarded in the league, General Manager of Football Operations Josh Mahoney said Lewis will be a fantastic addition to the red and blue.
“It is great that we are able to keep Jordan involved with the club,” he told Melbourne Media.
“What he brought to us in his three years as a player, we now look to add to in a coaching and mentoring role.
“Jordan will be part-time, with a focus on pre-season, which allows him to continue building his media commitments, and will work closely with Head of Development Matthew Egan on developing and managing our kicking program.”
Lewis, who retired at the end of the 2019 season, played 319 AFL games with Melbourne (55 games) and Hawthorn (264 games).
