Essendon Assistant Coach Dale Tapping will step away from his role to focus on his next round of scheduled treatment for Myeloma.

Tapping was diagnosed with a type of blood cancer earlier this year and continued his role as the forwards coach for the first half of the Bombers’ season while undergoing weekly treatments.

While Tapping’s treatment has progressed well over the first stage, the assistant coach has decided to focus fully on his health over the coming months.

All players, staff and board members are 100% behind Tapping and are united in their support and friendship with him.

General Manager of Football Josh Mahoney said the club would continue to support Tapping and his family throughout his treatment.

“Dale was diagnosed with Myeloma earlier in the year and has been receiving weekly treatment. Up until this point, his treatment plan and his general wellbeing has allowed him to continue in his coaching role,” Mahoney said.

“Dale has started a different treatment phase, which will require all his energy, and for this reason, he will step away from his coaching role for a period of time.

“As a club, we fully support Dale, Kelly, Summer and Mason during this period and hope that the positive progressions made to date continue with this treatment.”

Head of Development Cameron Roberts will step into Tapping’s role as the Forwardline Coach, while continuing to lead the club’s development program. Head of Performance Daniel McPherson will work with the broader coaching group to cover Tapping’s role.

“Cam Roberts will take on the duties of coaching the forwards, with Brad’s assistance. Cam will remain in the Head of Development role and maintain the key responsibilities in that role,” Mahoney said.

“Other components of his role will be shared among our development coaching team members and Performance Analysts.

“We are confident that with these adjustments, we will continue to deliver the coaching resources to our players that ensure that we deliver a world-class football program.”