The Western Bulldogs have confirmed Sam Power as their new executive manager of men's football.
The long-anticipated move comes following club legend Chris Grant's departure from the role late last year.
Power is no stranger to the Bulldogs' operations, having led the club's list management and recruiting department since 2018. This period has seen the likes of Adam Treloar, Ryley Sanders, Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, Sam Darcy, Cody Weightman, Liam Jones and Bailey Smith all recruited to the club. It has also seen key pieces such as Marcus Bontempelli, Tom Liberatore, Bailey Dale, Tim English, Ed Richards and Aaron Naughton all re-sign deals at certain stages.
Prior to his tenure at the Bulldogs, Power had also spent five years at Carlton in a scouting capacity. This stint had seen the Blues pick up the likes of Jacob Weitering, Patrick Cripps, Charlie Curnow, Harry McKay and Tom De Koning.
The 41-year-old's new role at the Dogs will now see him oversee all aspects of the men's football program, including that of his former recruiting role.
The news comes as little surprise given Power's interim work in the role over recent months.
Power spoke excitedly about stepping into the role on a full-time basis.
โI'm really grateful for the opportunity and extremely thankful for the support and guidance I've had from a number of people over the last seven years at the football club.โ Power said in a club announcement.
โOur football program is really well placed to succeed over the coming years through our experienced staff and driven playing group".
Bulldogs CEO Ameet Bains spoke highly of the work Power had done to date and was bullish on his prospects in the role moving forward.
"Sam has excelled in leading the men's football program during this interim period with his trademark measured, thorough and diligent approach coming to the fore,โ he said.
โHaving been involved in the AFL industry in many different capacities over numerous years, Sam has the requisite skills and experience to strongly lead our men's football program in its pursuit of sustained success".
Power and the rest of his off-field staff look set for a busy season, with Marcus Bontempelli, Adam Treloar, Tom Liberatore, Liam Jones and Ed Richards all out of contract beyond 2025.
