Essendon Football Club is excited to announce the appointment of Blake Caracella as VFL Head Senior Coach for the 2024 season. 

Caracella has worked as an assistant coach in the Bombers’ AFL program for the past four years, most recently holding the role of the backline coach in 2023. 

With over 25 years of football experience as a player and coach, Caracella said he was thrilled to take the reigns of the Bombers VFL side and to play an integral part in the development of players.

“I am excited about this challenge and opportunity to coach the VFL team,” Caracella said.  

“Together with fellow coaches, we will create an environment in which our players can enjoy themselves, develop and reach their potential together. “

General Manager of AFL Daniel McPherson said the appointment is important in strengthening our overall football program.  

“Our VFL program plays a vital role in the development of our players and prepares them for AFL-level football,” McPherson said. 

“To have someone of Blake’s calibre and experience leading this program is extremely beneficial. His extensive experience at the elite level will ensure he sets the standards and expectations for our players to get the most out of themselves and the programs.

“Importantly, Blake will continue to work closely with Brad and the AFL coaching staff to ensure continued alignment between both programs.”

Caracella will work closely with recently appointed AFL Talent & Operations Manager Matt Rosa, who has extensive experience developing a successful state league program at Peel Thunder in the WAFL.

“Matt’s football knowledge and experience, most recently from his time at Peel Thunder, means he understands the importance of having a strong second-tier program and the impact that can have over the wider club,” McPherson said.

“Blake and Matt will work closely with our Head of Development Cam Roberts, to build a program that not only accelerates the development of our AFL-listed players but also attracts strong talent who have the drive to become the best players they can.”

The Bombers are also pleased to welcome Jona Segal to the NEC Hangar as a Performance Coach, who will work within the high-performance team, overseeing the AFL program’s dietician services and assisting the strength and conditioning team.

Segal’s brings over two decades of elite sports experience, including leading North Melbourne’s high-performance department from 2017 to 2020.