The Western Bulldogs are excited to announce Luke Power has joined the Club as Head of Development for the AFL program.

Highly experienced and respected across the AFL industry, Power has a strong background in nurturing and developing emerging talent, working across a range of Clubs and elite youth programs.

The 44-year-old crosses from Carlton, having taken the reigns as Head Coach of the VFL program in 2022, previously holding the role of AFL Head of Development at the Blues. 

Power spent three years as the AFL Academy Head Coach, developing the best young talent from around the country, overseeing many stars reach their dreams and excel at AFL level.

In 2013, Power began his coaching journey at GWS after retiring, moving into a Development Coach role before becoming a full-time assistant at the Club. 

As a player, Power played 302 games, winning three premierships with the Brisbane Lions during the early 2000’s.

The midfielder was an All-Australian in 2004, co-captaining both Brisbane and GWS throughout his football journey. 

General Manager of Coaching & Performance, Matt Egan, was thrilled that the Bulldogs could acquire someone of Power’s experience and calibre into the new role. 

“Luke is a great football person, with his accolades as a player and coach showing his ability to influence football programs and develop talent at the highest level,” Egan said.

“His high-level skillset in developing talent, ability to build relationships and hands on approach will only enhance our program. 

“Having played in a dominant era for Brisbane, been instrumental in the start-up of the GWS Giants and coached Australia’s best young talent as the AFL Academy Manager, Luke brings immense experience, passion and leadership to our entire Club. 

“We look forward to welcoming Luke, wife Anita and daughters Mae and Edie to the Western Bulldogs family in coming weeks.” 

Power was excited to land at the Kennel.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining the Western Bulldogs,” Power said.

“Having watched the Club from afar, the prospect of working alongside some of the best in the industry and an exciting group of players was an opportunity too good to pass up.” 

“I’m looking forward to helping the football program continue to develop their young talent, with a bright future on display during the Club’s premiership victory with Footscray over the weekend.