Essendon is pleased to welcome Travis Varcoe as the Club’s Indigenous Player Development Manager.

The 37-year-old, who played out a successful 230-game AFL career with Geelong and Collingwood that held two Premierships, also brings a wealth of experience to the Bombers from his community and coaching work, both within and outside of football circles.

Throughout his time with the Cats and Pies, Varcoe was active in working with remote communities and also served as an ambassador for Hard Cuddles, an organisation which focused on innovative peer support for males facing emotional hardship.

Following the conclusion of his playing career in 2020, Varcoe has undertaken roles with the Western Bulldogs as a Development Coach and with the Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency (VACCA) as both a Custody Worker and Cultural Mentor, reflective of his standing and impact within the wider community.

In the role, Varcoe will work closely with the Bombers’ Indigenous players in Jade Gresham and Alwyn Davey Jnr, and provide broader cultural education to the football department and football club.

Varcoe is excited to join the Club with the 2025 season freshly up and running.

“I'm super excited to get back into the AFL system in a new role and capacity at Essendon. I'm particularly looking forward to working with Jade and Alwyn, and also across the playing group with specific assistance to the Jack Jones Academy players. Development is my passion, so it's great to jump back into it and help these young players continue to maximise their talent,” Varcoe said.

"Growing up as an indigenous kid, Essendon was a club that always led from the front, and I looked up to the players who wore the red and black. Its an exciting time to be joining the club and I cant wait to get started.”

 GM – AFL Daniel McPherson is thrilled for the Dons to secure Varcoe in the role, citing his array of experience as a player and leader.

“Travis not only brings across a decorated 15-year football career’s worth of experience, but strong values and great character which make him a perfect fit for the role,” McPherson said.

“He’ll obviously provide great individual support for Jade and Alwyn in the role, but we’re also looking forward to seeing the perspective he’ll offer for all staff, players and coaches in terms of our education around supporting Indigenous and First Nations communities.

“Travis is a highly regarded person within the footy community and it’s terrific to welcome him into our program early in the season.”

Varcoe will start at the Bombers on Tuesday.