Recently-appointed VFL coach Jordan Russell has informed the Western Bulldogs he will depart to take up an opportunity with North Melbourne. 

Russell has spent the past seven years at VU Whitten Oval, across various playing and coaching roles.

He captained Footscray’s 2014 and 2016 VFL premiership teams, combining his playing duties with a development coaching role, before transitioning to a full-time development coach position and then an AFL assistant coach position at the end of 2019. 

“Jordan is a great person who has made a really strong contribution to our football club over a significant period of time,” Director of Football, Chris Grant, said.

“We were looking forward to having Jordan lead our VFL program this season and continuing to develop his coaching craft, but we also understand the opportunity he has been presented.

“We wish Jordan all the best with this next step in his coaching journey.”

Russell was one of the Bulldogs’ staff members unable to continue through the duration of 2020 due to the forced reduction of football department staff caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

He was appointed to the role of Footscray VFL coach in October. 

The Bulldogs will immediately commence the search for a replacement for next season.