Essendon is excited to welcome former AFL Premiership player Ben Brown to their AFLW coaching panel as Head of Development for 2025.

Alongside his illustrious AFL career, Brown brings years of football knowledge, coaching experience, and a strong passion for the AFLW competition.

Over the last eight years of his playing career, which concluded last year, the 32-year-old volunteered his time as an AFLW Specialist Coach at both North Melbourne and Melbourne. Whilst in his coaching role at Melbourne, he experienced the ultimate success when their AFLW side took out the 2022 AFLW Premiership.

“I’ve loved watching the growth of women’s sport over the past few years, and particularly the AFLW competition. Back in my early years I was part of the women’s coaching team at Melbourne Uni VFLW. Fast forward to now and I’m excited to get to work here at the NEC Hangar and at Windy Hill," Brown said.

“I’m looking forward to working alongside (AFLW Senior Coach) Natalie Wood to further develop the talented playing list they have built here at the Bombers."

Drafted to North Melbourne in 2013 and debuting the following season, Ben soon established himself as one of the league's most reliable key forwards and a consummate professional.

He went on to boot 360 goals over the course of 175 games across his time at the Kangaroos and then Melbourne, taking home football's ultimate prize in the latter's 2021 Grand Final victory, where he slotted three majors in the big dance.

Brown's hopeful his vast array of experience at the highest level and prior coaching experience will lend itself well to the new role.

“My time in the AFL system taught me how to prepare, both physically and mentally, to perform in the biggest moments," Brown said.

"I also learnt a great deal about hard work, commitment and the importance of a holistic attitude to football through my time working with AFLW athletes. I'm incredibly excited to get to work with another group who is driven to learn and grow along with me."

It’s also the work Brown does off-field that showcases his values and care for community.

An advocate for gender equality, diversity, and inclusion, Brown works closely with organisations such as Challenge, Our Watch, Stand Up Events and the Good Friday Appeal.

“We are so proud to have someone of Ben’s calibre join us at the Bombers. The work Ben does on and off-field is everything we align with as a Club," GM - AFLW Aysha Ward said.

“Ben has seen Premiership success as both a player and a coach, he knows what it takes. This perspective will be a valuable addition to our coaching panel and a great opportunity for all of our players to continue in their growth."

Palo Alto Networks is Essendon's proud Coaches Partner for the 2025 season.