The Soaring

I think this is the best news we’ve had from the West Coast Eagles in weeks. Michael Voss, Brownlow Medalist and triple premiership captain with the Brisbane Lions has agreed to join the Eagles coaching staff on a two year contract.

Who knew signing Assistant Coaches could be such a thrill for the fans? But when your team is 2-12 and has copped nothing but hidings in the media for the past 18 months this is a massive plus for the club.

Here is part of the statement Vossy made to upon the announcement of the appointment today:

“I have made a decision to pursue a coaching career and after two years out of AFL football I’m really excited about the prospect of joining the Eagles,” Voss said.

“They are a club I’ve always admired and John Worsfold is a person of the highest integrity. I look forward to working under him and learning the workings of another AFL club from the inside.”

It’s also been announced Voss will oversee the club’s midfield from next season in what will be a huge boost for our young emerging midfield.

It also means Voss rejected an offer to coach the Gold Coast expansion team after being unable to get a contract for their first three seasons. It seemed as though the GC17 bid had Voss signed up - he had consulted with them closely and had been in their publicity shots - but they ultimated wouldn’t commit long term.

In the end what Carlton failed to do last year and GC17 / AFL failed to do this year, the Eagles have managed to pull off.

Can Voss though really made that much of an impact as an Assistant, and an Assistant without any previous coaching experience? The answer to that is simply, of course!

Most teams that suffer through the seasons we’re going through decide they are better off with a new head coach. Given Worsfold had lead the team to a premiership in 2006 that scenario was always unlikely, but all can see changes in the box needed to be made. Recent appointments to the coaching staff - Darren Harris, Michael Broadbridge and Peter Worsfold - have been fairly low key. But when all is going well, what else do you need?

Now that things are not so rosy, we do need some fresh blood, some new ideas and some different insights and perspectives. With Voss we get that in a package that is one of the most esteemed and respected in the game. You don’t reckon Masten, Ebert, Selwood, McNamara won’t be stoked to be under Voss’ tutelege? They will love it.

If nothing else this will just bring some confidence back to the club. For the players that they are part of a strong and successful club. To Woosha that he’s respected and that one the game’s greats is travelling across the nation to learn from him. To the off-field leadership, that the club is still a highly regarded power and brand in the competition. It’s pump up all round.

I’ve been impressed with his insights as a commentator with Ten - he’s not afraid to say it as he sees it, which for Woosha - who is known to be conservative with his approach to the team - could be just what the doctor ordered.

Welcome to the club Vossy. Onwards to 09!