Nathan Buckley joins Geelong as assistant coach ahead of likely Tasmania appointment

Former Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley has joined Geelong as an assistant under Chris Scott in a surprise move ahead of a likely appointment as Tasmania’s inaugural coach.

Buckley had been the frontrunner to replace Simon Goodwin as coach of Melbourne, but was overlooked for Stephen King when it became clear he had more interest in the Tassie job.

He remains the Devils’ first preference to become their coach when they enter the competition, which is slated for 2028.

In the meantime, Buckley will assimilate back into AFL coaching at Kardinia Park.

“We are excited to add Nathan to our club and more specifically to our coaching group,” Geelong footy boss Andrew Mackie said on Tuesday.

“He is respected and highly regarded across the football industry and brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective.

“In speaking with Nathan, it was clear he had a strong appetite to return to coaching, and we look forward to welcoming him to our football program to work closely with our players and staff.”

Interestingly, Buckley will effectively be replacing King in the Geelong coaches’ box.

Buckley has not coached at any level since parting ways with Collingwood half-way through 2021.

He spent 10 years at the Magpies, guiding them through five finals campaigns, including two preliminary finals and a grand final in 2018.

The 53-year-old has spent the past four years working as an expert commentator in the media.

Before his coaching career, he was one of Collingwood’s greatest ever players, playing 260 games for the Pies after 20 with the Brisbane Bears.

Speaking last month, Buckley replied “yes” when asked if he would accept an offer to be the inaugural coach of Tasmania.

“I am not sitting here saying like I assume that, expect that (Tasmania offer), this is all open spitballing,” Buckley told SEN.

“But yeah, I’ve determined that I would love to coach again.

“If Tassie feel like I am a fit, then I will be there.”

Hours after Buckley’s appointment was announced, Tasmania released an official statement congratulating him.

“Tasmania Football Club acknowledges and congratulates Nathan Buckley on his appointment to Geelong Football Club,” the Devils wrote.

“It is great to see individuals of Nathan’s calibre back coaching and if he wishes to coach at AFL level again we see this as a very positive step.”