Essendon’s wheelchair football program has been bolstered by the inclusion of Chris Henderson as their new playing Senior Coach.

A three-time VWFL Premiership player with Richmond and one of the league’s prominent individual stars, Henderson will bring a wealth of experience to the Dons’ developing group ahead of next season.

Henderson is excited to venture into a new challenge as the Bombers’ Senior Coach and play a role in the club’s push up the ladder in 2025.

“It’s awesome to be a part of what the crew are putting together here at Essendon,” Henderson said.

“I understand how important it is in the community space to be able to look at diversity and inclusion and involve people with disabilities in a football club, so to be able to do that at a club like Essendon is insanely exciting.”

“I have so much respect for Richmond and absolutely loved my time there but this opportunity provides me with a new challenge to really test myself as a Coach and to have some added responsibility for a team. Hopefully I can help support the team in their vision as we look to win our first Premiership in the wheelchair space.”

Henderson’s football journey began well before his move into the wheelchair game, playing out a successful local career in Ballarat as well as a stint with East Perth in the WAFL through the late 1990’s.

Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in late 2017, Henderson learned to retrain and regain mobility in his body over a challenging 15-month period before eventually continuing his passion for the game through the VWFL.

Henderson was named league best and fairest and awarded best-on-ground in the Grand Final of Richmond’s 2019 VWFL Premiership, making immediate impact on the league and establishing himself as a strong leader within the side.

After the retirement of former playing coach Louis Rowe at the end of last season, Henderson now takes the reins as the Bombers look ahead to the future.

Essendon Head of Community Tim Nield is thrilled to have Henderson on board for 2025.

“Chris is not only an outstanding player but also an exceptional leader who embodies the values we hold at the club,” Nield said.

“We’re excited to have him at the helm as we continue to build a program that supports and inspires players of the wheelchair game.”