Essendon Football Club has announced the appointment of Dr. Mathew Inness as the new Head of High Performance and Medical. This strategic move comes as the club aims to bolster its football program following a challenging season. Inness, an experienced sports scientist, joins the Bombers after a successful two-year stint with the West Coast Eagles as High Performance Manager.
Inness’s career is marked by significant achievements, including his role as Head of Sport Science and Physical Performance at the Western Bulldogs. During his 12-season tenure, he led the team to a premiership in his first full season and guided them to finals in six of nine seasons. His expertise is not limited to football; he has also contributed to the Malaysian Track Cycling Team, helping them secure an Olympic Silver medal in Tokyo 2021.
Inness’s Storied Career
Before his recent roles, Inness was a high-achieving athlete, representing Western Australia and Victoria in domestic cricket. He was inducted into the Essendon Cricket Club’s Hall of Fame in 2023, a testament to his enduring impact on the sport. Inness made his first-class debut for Victoria in 1997, showcasing his versatility and commitment to sports excellence.
In addition to his athletic prowess, Inness holds a PhD from Victoria University and has completed a Master of Business Administration. His academic background is complemented by a Masters in Exercise Science, Strength and Conditioning from Edith Cowan University, underscoring his comprehensive understanding of sports performance.
Return to Essendon
Inness expressed enthusiasm about his return to Essendon, a club with which he shares a deep personal connection. “It is really sad to be leaving West Coast, but sometimes you have to let go of something that you love to take on a great opportunity,” Inness remarked. His decision was driven by the chance to reunite with family in Melbourne and work with a club renowned for its rich history and promising future.
“In the conversations I’ve had with Essendon, I truly feel a genuine sense of purpose and an exciting vision for the future,” Inness said. “The challenges of the past year have forged a really united team, and I can’t wait to join a group of players who are ready to get to work.”
Essendon’s Strategic Vision
Essendon General Manager of Football Dan McPherson highlighted the significance of Inness’s appointment. “After undertaking an extensive process, we are thrilled to announce the appointment of Dr. Mathew Inness as our new Head of High Performance and Medical. Securing someone of his calibre and experience is a significant step forward for our football program,” McPherson stated.
McPherson emphasized Inness’s proven track record at both the Western Bulldogs and West Coast Eagles. “Mat’s track record, particularly during the Bulldogs’ premiership season, speaks for itself. He has a proven ability to build and lead elite programs that get the best out of players,” he added.
“This appointment is a crucial piece of our strategy to build a world-class football department. We believe Mat will be a tremendous asset to our club, and we look forward to welcoming him and his family to the Bombers,” McPherson concluded.
Looking Ahead
Inness is set to commence his role at Essendon ahead of the AFL players’ return to training in November. His appointment is seen as a pivotal step in the club’s efforts to enhance its competitive edge and achieve on-field success. With Inness at the helm, Essendon is poised to leverage his extensive experience and leadership to drive the club’s high-performance strategy forward.
As the Bombers prepare for the upcoming season, the club and its supporters are hopeful that Inness’s expertise will translate into tangible improvements on the field. His appointment marks a new chapter for Essendon, one that promises a blend of tradition and innovation in pursuit of excellence.
