Geelong Cats congratulate Nigel Lappin on his appointment as Tasmania Football Club's inaugural Head of Development.

Since joining the Club’s coaching team for the 2009 season under Mark Thompson, Lappin has made a significant contribution to the Cats across his 18 year tenure.

Lappin has held a range of coaching positions, including Development Coach, midfield coach and forwards coach, and has been part of three Premierships as a coach in 2009, 2011 and 2022.

Since being appointed Head of Development at the end of 2023, Lappin has overseen and worked to strengthen the development of the Club’s emerging talent, playing a key part in preparing and supporting players to make their AFL debut and establish themselves at AFL level.

Reflecting on his time at the Cats Lappin said:

“I leave with mixed emotions. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities this Club has given me and the stability it has provided my family over the past 18 years.

“The leadership of this Club - Steve Hocking, Chris Scott, Andrew Mackie, and those who came before them— has been exceptional. Their ability to inspire people, encourage growth, and back their staff unconditionally creates a people first environment.

“I’ve been fortunate to build lifelong relationships across the Club. To everyone in the football department, the assistant coaches, and most recently the fantastic team involved with the Academy—thank you. It’s been an incredible journey.

“To the players, past and present: while my role was to help you develop, you’ve shaped the coach and person I’ve become. The greatest privilege of my job has been sharing the journey with you and pursuing something meaningful together.

“This Club has always felt like home. I’ll never forget the success we achieved, but even more than that, I’ll always remember how the people here made me feel.

“While leaving is difficult, I’m excited for a new challenge—the opportunity to help build something at a foundation club, in a football-obsessed state with strong personal ties, and in an area of the game I’m deeply passionate about.”

Geelong Cats EGM football Andrew Mackie said:

“We're excited for Nigel and this new opportunity in his career.

“Nigel has worn plenty of hats in his 18 years at the Cats and has been a constant source of support for our players, coaches and staff. His commitment, loyalty and passion for helping players develop has had a significant impact on the people who have come through and are currently in our program.

“Many of our younger players currently playing AFL have benefited from Nigel's coaching, guidance and investment in their development.

“Nigel has always put the Club and its people first and on behalf of everyone at the Club, I'd like to thank Nigel for his incredible service and contribution.”

Lappin will continue in his role until the end of the Club’s AFL and VFL seasons.