Former AFL player Brodie Holland has been named the Essendon District Football League’s interleague coach.
The former Collingwood and Fremantle footballer will take the helm of the EDFL side when they face the Eastern Football League in the 2017 WorkSafe AFL Victoria Community Championships in May.
Holland replaces Keilor coach Mick McGuane in the coaching hot seat.
Former Richmond coach Jeff Gieschen has been named director of coaching for a third straight year.
Holland is no stranger to the league, having coached and played at Maribyrnong Park from 2009 to 2014.
He led the side to A-grade premierships 2009 and 2010.
Holland said he was excited to be involved with the EDFL again.
“I know a fair few of the coaches and probably played against a lot of the players that are still running around the EDFL today,” he said.
“Although I’ve taken a step back in the last couple of years I know the competition really well, so it should be easy enough to get a hold on selection and the top players we need for the game.”
After wins the last two years against Southern and Goulburn Valley football leagues respectively, the EDFL is ranked the fourth top league in the state. A win would give the EDFL a chance to play off for the number one ranking next year.
Holland senses the occasion that’s ahead of the team.
“This game has a bit of an added incentive,” he said.
“Back when I was coaching at Maribyrnong Park, the guys in the Eastern Football League thought they were better than us and probably vice-versa, so there are plenty of bragging rights on the line in that respect.
“As players, coaches and administrators we’re certainly very proud to be part of the EDFL, so it’d be nice to claim those bragging rights and we’re ready to get to work on this year’s program.”
