The Brisbane Lions have appointed former GWS GIANTS forward Daniel Lloyd as development coach ahead of the 2024 season.
Lloyd, who retired from AFL this year, arrives at Brighton Homes Arena following 101 games with the GIANTS which included the 2019 Grand Final.
The 31-year-old committed to the Lions after relocating to Queensland last month.
“I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to be joining a great club that has been successful and a consistent performer for a number of years now,” Lloyd said.
“One thing I’ve always felt is a strength of mine is my ability to build great relationships with people of all ages and that will be something I continue to do at the Lions to help me be the best coach I can be.
“My career wasn’t straight forward or a traditional one, and I had to work extremely hard to achieve what I did, so there’s plenty of learnings I can take from my journey and pass on.
“I just want to be a helping hand that can offer some guidance to the younger players and the older players if there are ways I can help them too.”
Brisbane Lions General Manager Football, Danny Daly said the Club was thrilled to have Lloyd join its coaching ranks.
“With Daniel’s appointment we not only gain an impressive professional but also a great person that everyone you talk to speaks very highly of,” Daly said.
“And when you look at his career, he is living proof of how to get the best out of yourself and to make the most of your opportunities – valuable lessons for our players, particularly our young players to learn.
“We look forward to welcoming Daniel and his family Crystal, Parker and Charli to the Brisbane Lions.”
The Lions have also appointed Club legend Daniel Rich to a dual football and administration role following his retirement after 275 games in the maroon, blue and gold.
Rich, one of the Club’s all-time best defenders and former All-Australians, joins the Lions’ football department working with the development and wellbeing teams.
The 33-year-old will also spend time working in the Club’s commercial department.
“We are delighted to have Daniel remain at our Club in his new role across both departments which we believe he will offer great value to,” Daly said.
“Daniel has had a fantastic career as a player and we look forward to him bringing his experience and knowledge to our playing group for season 2024 and beyond.”
The appointments of Lloyd and Rich completes the Brisbane Lions coaching structure for the 2024 season.
Brisbane Lions 2024 Coaching Structure
Chris Fagan – Senior Coach
Cameron Bruce – Assistant Coach (midfield)
Murray Davis – Assistant Coach (forward line)
Dale Morris – Assistant Coach (back line)
Scott Borlace – Head of Development
Daniel Lloyd – Development Coach
Daniel Rich – Development and Wellbeing
Ben Hudson – VFL Coach
