Tasmania’s best emerging talent will be in great hands with the arrival of two highly credentialed coaches to lead AFL Tasmania’s Under 18 Devils programs.
Colin Garland has been appointed Talent Pathways Girls Head Coach, while Scott Moore joins as Talent Pathways Boys Head Coach. Garland will lead the Under 18 Tasmania Devils Girls, and Moore will guide the Under 18 Tasmania Devils Boys in the Coates Talent League.
Garland is a well-known figure in Tasmanian football, beginning his playing career at North Hobart before being drafted to the Melbourne Football Club, where he played 141 AFL games between 2007 and 2017. After retiring, he transitioned into coaching, working with Melbourne’s AFLW program and serving as the inaugural senior coach of the Casey Demons VFLW side.
In recent years, Garland returned home to Tasmania, playing with North Hobart, Wynyard, and most recently winning a premiership with Clarence. Off the field, he has combined his passion for teaching and coaching, working as a teacher at Cosgrove High School while running his own AFL coaching business supporting young talent.
Garland impressed through the recruitment process with his vision, philosophy, and player centred approach, all well aligned with the girls' program.
“Educating and developing players is what I’m passionate about, and this role allows me to do just that,” Garland said.
“I’ve been fortunate to play the game for a long time, and my aim is to foster an environment where players can learn, grow their skills, and develop a lifelong love of football.
“Tasmanian football is entering an exciting era, and it’s a privilege to help guide our emerging girls.”
Moore joins from Western Australia, bringing a wealth of experience in the Talent Pathways system and a proven track record in developing both players and coaches.
Most recently, he served as Head Coach – Colts with the Perth Football Club, where he was named WAFL Colts Coach of the Year. He has also spent the past six years working with the Western Bulldogs as an AFL recruitment scout.
Highly regarded as one of Western Australia’s leading development coaches, Moore now relocates to Tasmania to lead the boys program.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the Tasmanian talent pathway at such an exciting time for football in the state,” Moore said.
“Player development is a passion, so the ability to help develop players as people and footballers in such an exciting time for the state is a real driver.
“Setting the foundations for players to succeed across the state, whether that be AFL or VFL is such an exciting opportunity to be a part of.”
Head of AFL Tasmania Damian Gill said the appointments strengthen both programs and position them for long term success.
“We’ve secured two impressive, passionate coaches on the rise, each with the potential to make a significant impact on Tasmanian football,” Gill said.
“Colin is deeply passionate about Tasmania and women’s football. He understands the trends of the game, loves developing players, and his presentation through the process was first class. He painted a clear picture of his football intellect, coaching style, and philosophy, and it was evident he’s a good fit for our girls' program and the teaching environment we strive for.
“Scott has an outstanding reputation for developing young players to an elite standard in the WAFL pathway system. He’s been part of great organisations and has had his fingerprints on strong development programs. His ability to build relationships and establish a high performing, enjoyable learning environment stood out immediately, as did his enthusiasm for the opportunity ahead.
“At a critical juncture for our talent programs and our state, it’s fantastic to have both coaches on board.”
Garland will commence on 10 November, with Moore to begin on 17 November. Both will be based at AFL Tasmania’s Hobart office.