Nathan Buckley has emerged as a leading candidate for the inaugural head coaching role at the Tasmania Devils, with many in the AFL community believing he is the ideal choice for the position.
Buckley, a highly respected figure in the AFL, recently stepped down as the senior coach of the Collingwood Football Club after a successful tenure. During his time at Collingwood, Buckley demonstrated his coaching prowess, leading the Magpies to finals appearances and guiding them through a challenging period of rebuilding and transformation.
His experience and leadership have not gone unnoticed, and his name has quickly risen to the top of the list of potential coaches for the newly formed Tasmania Devils. The Devils, set to join the AFL as its 19th team in 2025, are looking to establish a strong foundation both on and off the field, making the selection of their inaugural head coach a critical decision.
Buckley’s credentials speak for themselves. As a player, he was a star midfielder for the Brisbane Bears and Collingwood Football Club, earning multiple accolades including the Brownlow Medal. His transition into coaching was seamless, and his strategic acumen and ability to develop young talent have been widely praised.
One of the key factors in Buckley’s favor is his connection to Tasmania. Born in Hobart, Buckley has maintained strong ties to the state throughout his career. His understanding of Tasmanian football culture and his passion for the development of the game in the region make him a natural fit for the Devils.
Commentators and analysts have pointed to Buckley’s ability to build a team culture, develop young players, and navigate the complexities of modern AFL football as reasons why he would excel in the role. His experience as both a player and a coach gives him a unique perspective that could prove invaluable in shaping the future of the Tasmania Devils.
While Buckley has yet to confirm his interest in the position, speculation continues to mount as to whether he will be the one to lead the Devils into their inaugural season. If appointed, Buckley would bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and leadership to the role, making him ‘perfectly poised’ to make a significant impact on Tasmanian football.
As the Tasmania Devils continue their search for their inaugural head coach, the AFL community eagerly awaits the announcement, with Nathan Buckley standing out as a frontrunner for the prestigious position.
