Essendon has revealed that two-time premiership Geelong player Travis Varcoe has joined the club in a developmental role, helping guide the Indigenous players at the club.
Varcoe enjoyed a successful 15-year career that spanned across the Cats and Collingwood, playing 230 games for 171 goals.
The 37-year-old has also undertaken many community and coaching works within the football community, as well as in society, according to the Bombers.
Since he retired at the end of 2020, Varcoe spent time at the Western Bulldogs as a development coach.
His new role will focus on providing a broader cultural education to Essendon, as well as working with Indigenous players in Jade Gresham and Alwyn Davey Jnr.
"I'm super excited to get back into the AFL system in a new role and capacity at Essendon. I'm particularly looking forward to working with Jade and Alwyn, and also across the playing group with specific assistance to the Jack Jones Academy players," Varcoe said.
"Development is my passion, so it's great to jump back into it and help these young players continue to maximise their talent.
"Growing up as an indigenous kid, Essendon was a club that always led from the front, and I looked up to the players who wore the red and black.
"It's an exciting time to be joining the club, and I can't wait to get started."
Bombers GM of Football Daniel McPherson was stoked the club lured Varcoe, given he brings a wealth of experience and knowledge in many key aspects of football and life.
"Travis not only brings across a decorated 15-year football career's worth of experience, but strong values and great character, which make him a perfect fit for the role," McPherson said.
"He'll obviously provide great individual support for Jade and Alwyn in the role, but we're also looking forward to seeing the perspective he'll offer for all staff, players and coaches in terms of our education around supporting Indigenous and First Nations communities.
"Travis is a highly regarded person within the footy community, and it's terrific to welcome him into our program early in the season."
