Ex-Bombers skipper Dyson Heppell fires off a handball against Collingwood, the club he's now joined. -AAP Image
Ex-Essendon captain Dyson Heppell has joined AFL rivals Collingwood as a development coach.
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Heppell, 33, who quit playing at the end of the 2024 season after a decorated 253-game career, will start in January with the Pies.
The beloved former Bomber skipper spent last season playing in his home town of Leongatha in Victoria's Gippsland region.
Collingwood have also pinched ruck coach Greg Stafford from Melbourne, where he spent 11 seasons.
The Magpies' football manager Charlie Gardiner says Heppell and Stafford are key inclusions.
"Dyson is a fantastic addition," Gardiner said in a statement.
"His experiences as a player, including his knowledge around leadership, will be a valuable asset.
"Working predominantly with our upcoming talent, Dyson's ability to form strong relationships and understand the needs of players will allow him to be influential and mentor our emerging talent.
"Greg has over 20 years of football experience and has a track record of developing talented players. He will play a pivotal role in developing our current and future rucks."
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