Dale Tapping has been appointed VFL Senior Coach for at least the next two seasons.

Tapping has over 25 years of coaching experience, including playing a key role in Essendon's AFL program as an Assistant Coach over the past three seasons.

Recently, Tapping was awarded the 2024 AFL Coaches Career and Education Award for furthering his coaching credentials through study and career development.

Since arriving at the NEC Hangar, Tapping has overseen the Bombers' forward line and is highly regarded for his communication skills and ability to develop relationships to maximise players' talent.

Before joining Essendon at the end of 2021, Tapping led the Brisbane Lion's midfield for five seasons and, prior to that, was a successful coach at Collingwood's VFL program and at the Sandringham Dragons.