AFL Tasmania is thrilled to announce the appointment of experienced pair Will Tatchell and Michael Hoyle to two key roles, as an exciting new era of Tasmanian community football takes shape.
Will Tatchell will fill the role of Coach Education and Development Lead, based in the state’s North. Will is no stranger to Tasmanian Community Football, having been involved in the sport across several years including last year where he was awarded the 2023 National Community Coach of the Year.
In addition to his work with East Launceston FC in recent years, Will previously served as an assistant coach with North Launceston FC.
Michael Hoyle has been appointed Competitions Lead, managing the TSL in the league’s final year. Michael has a long history with football and has recently worked for AFL Tasmania as the Match Review Officer, reviewing reports from matches across all Southern and NTFA competitions.
Both Will and Michael are set to commence their roles in the coming weeks.
Quotes attributable to AFL Tasmania Community Football Manager Tom Barwick:
“Will has had involvement at various levels of football across the state and his eagerness to develop and improve coaching support and standards were evident throughout the application process and it’s clear he will be of benefit to the Tasmanian football community.”
“Few roles in football clubs are as influential as coaches. Each coach at each club, whether it be Auskick or Seniors, impacts the experience of players. Ensuring that our coaches are resourced and supported to deliver a positive playing experience is essential to continuing to grow football participation as we work towards 28,000 statewide participants by 2028.”
Quotes attributable to AFL Tasmania Regional Manager South Chris Garrett:
“We are delighted to have Michael joining the team as Competitions Lead. Michael brings extensive sports management and administrative experience to the role, and a strong background in football with an existing understanding of the TSL.”
Quotes attributable to Will Tatchell:
“I am genuinely excited about taking on this role with AFL Tasmania. The Tasmanian football scene is dynamic, vibrant and full of potential, and I’m eager to contribute by nurturing a culture of continuous improvement and innovation in our coaching methodologies and strategies.”
“With my extensive coaching background, ranging from grassroots Auskick to the State League, I bring a comprehensive view to coaching at all levels. This experience will be pivotal in engaging with and enhancing the quality of football coaching throughout Tasmania. My deep-rooted passion for the game and commitment to development are what will drive me in this role.”
“I’m enthusiastic about the significant role our coaches play in teaching our local players in our game. Coaches are vital at every level of football, and I am dedicated to ensuring that our coaching community becomes even more valued, robust, skilled, and cohesive, contributing to the growth and success of football throughout our state.”
Quotes attributable to Michael Hoyle:
“I am extremely excited to have the opportunity to expand my role with AFL Tasmania and the football community across the State after three years in the role of Match Review Officer.
I am looking forward to building strong relationships with all key stakeholders and continuing to do my part in growing our great game in Tasmania that we all love and are extremely passionate about.”