The Essendon Football Club is in mourning after the passing of VFL Senior Coach Dale Tapping.
Tapping had bravely fought Myeloma, an aggressive form of blood cancer, since January 2023 and passed on Tuesday morning surrounded by his family.
He is survived by his wife Kellie, and children Summer and Mason.
“On behalf of everyone at the Essendon Football Club, we are deeply saddened by Dale's loss," Essendon President Dave Barham said.
"Dale was a man of impeccable character who was universally loved and respected by those who were lucky enough to have crossed paths with him over his 28 years in the football industry.
“Our Club’s thoughts are with his wife Kellie, children Summer and Mason, and the extended Tapping family at this most challenging of times. He has left a lasting impact on the Essendon Football Club and across the broader football community, and will be remembered as a selfless individual whose passion and care for people and the game was evident in everything he did.
“Our love and support goes out to Kellie, Summer and Mason in this incredibly tough time," Essendon CEO Craig Vozzo said.
"Dale was a wonderful person and mentor of young men – a man of outstanding character and integrity. We were incredibly fortunate to have Dale work at our Club over the past three years. He will be sadly missed, but has left us with many lasting learnings and memories.”
“Dale was an outstanding coach, but his true legacy lies in the profound impact he had on players and staff personally," Senior Coach Brad Scott said.
"His dedication to their growth - both on and off the field - along with his genuine love for seeing people succeed were qualities admired by all.
“It was a privilege to have coached with him, and his legacy at the Club will endure through the players and staff he mentored throughout his career. Dale will be deeply missed by the AFL industry and everyone at the Bombers. Our thoughts are with his wife Kellie, and children Summer and Mason, who have shown incredible strength throughout this difficult time.”
Tapping brought more than 28 years of experience to the game.
He played at Collingwood VFL, Melbourne Reserves, Prahran VFA and Old Xaverians in the VAFA, before beginning his coaching career at local level with roles at Old Brighton and Old Scotch in the VAFA.
Tapping moved into the elite Under 18 competition, coaching the Sandringham Dragons and eventually joining Collingwood's VFL program, where he achieved considerable success, leading them to a preliminary final and being named the 2016 VFL Coach of the Year.
Tapping then served as an Assistant Coach at the Brisbane Lions, working with their midfield for five seasons before joining Essendon at the end of 2021.
He initially served as an Assistant Coach in our AFL program, overseeing the forward line. He was highly regarded for his communication skills and ability to develop players. At the end of 2024, he transitioned to the role of VFL Senior Coach, further demonstrating his commitment to player development and the club's success.
The Tapping family wish to highlight the care and support of St Vincent’s Haematology Ward and Cancer Centre and Myeloma Australia through this difficult time. Anyone wishing to support these organisations, can do so at the following links.
