“Summer of transformation: Dogs CEO supports Beveridge and Grant amidst reports of friction”
Western Bulldogs CEO Ameet Bains is confident that Luke Beveridge has the necessary resources to bounce back in 2024, dismissing concerns about his relationship with Chris Grant, the executive director of football. This comes after significant changes at the club during the off-season.
While other clubs like Gold Coast, North Melbourne, and Geelong made coaching panel changes, the Bulldogs underwent a major overhaul. Bains, along with Grant, oversaw these changes after a season where the Bulldogs were tipped as premiership contenders but missed out on September action.
New additions to the coaching staff include Matt Egan, Daniel Pratt, Jarryn Geary, and Alex Johnson, as well as Daniel Duvnjak-Zaknich as fitness boss and Brad Johnson as a consultant.
The club made these changes in September and October before bringing in former Essendon and Melbourne CEO Peter Jackson to conduct an external review of football operations. Jackson spent six weeks interviewing players, coaches, and other staff before Egan was promoted to general manager of football operations in January, reporting to Grant.
Bains dismissed rumors of a rift between Beveridge and Grant, stating that their relationship is strong and productive. He emphasized that the changes were made to prioritize leadership, strategy, and innovation while ensuring that operational and performance aspects are managed effectively under Egan’s leadership.
In summary, Bains reiterated that Grant remains responsible for the men’s program and is a crucial leader for the club’s football ambitions. The restructuring aims to optimize the program for success in the upcoming season.
