The 2026 AFL Coaches Association AFL Development Coach of the Year Award has been awarded to Geelong’s Nigel Lappin, recognising his long-standing work as the Cats’ Head of Development. 

Lappin has become a central figure in Geelong’s player development program, bringing extensive experience from his distinguished playing and coaching career to the club’s emerging talent. 

His development philosophy centres on the long-term growth of players on and off the field, with a focus on improvement, learning and building confidence within Geelong’s system. 

Lappin has played an important role in helping prepare the Cats’ next generation for senior football while contributing to the club’s sustained success.

His impact and experience at Geelong will now carry into the next chapter of his coaching career, with Lappin set to join Tasmania ahead of the club’s inaugural AFL season. 

Sydney’s Nick Malceski finished in second place, while Melbourne’s Taylor Whitford finished in third. 

Geelong Assistant Coach James Kelly was awarded the 2026 AFL Coaches Association Career and Education Award, recognised for his strong commitment to his ongoing professional development and leadership growth. 

Kelly is currently enrolled in the Harvard Business School’s ‘Changing the Game Negotiation and Competitive Decision-Making’ course which is set to take place during this off-season.

This builds on his previous professional development, including the AFL SportsReady Executive Certificate in AFL Management, Football Operations and List Management (2023), Methodic Business Coaching sessions (2022) and Harvard University’s Leadership Communication course (2018).