Essendon assistant and VFL coach Dale Tapping has died after a battle with blood cancer.
Tapping was diagnosed with Myeloma in 2023 and took time away from his duties with the Bombers before making a return to the football program later the same year.
He had continued his fight while remaining with the Bombers, where he found endless support from coaches, players and staff.
Essendon confirmed the unfortunate news of Tapping's passing on Tuesday, with the Bombers coach surrounded by family at the time of his death.
Essendon president David Barham paid tribute to Tapping's lasting impact on the club and the wider community.
โOn behalf of everyone at the Essendon Football Club, we are deeply saddened by Dale's loss," Barham said in a club statement.
"Dale was a man of impeccable character who was universally loved and respected by those who were lucky enough to have crossed paths with him over his 28 years in the football industry.
โOur Club's thoughts are with his wife Kellie, children Summer and Mason, and the extended Tapping family at this most challenging of times.
"He has left a lasting impact on the Essendon Football Club and across the broader football community, and will be remembered as a selfless individual whose passion and care for people and the game was evident in everything he did."
Taping spent 28 years in football, holding roles with Essendon, Brisbane, Collingwood and in the VAFA.
He spent five years with Brisbane following a stint with Collingwood's VFL program.
โDale was a terrific bloke who made a massive contribution to the Lions. He joined the club at the same time as Fages and played a key role in developing our squad with his knowledge and enthusiasm," Lions CEO Greg Swann said.
โHe was a great football person and an even better bloke. On behalf of the Lions, we send our love and condolences to Kellie and his kids Summer and Mason.โ
Tapping was appointed to the role of senior coach for Essendon's VFL team ahead of the 2025 season.