Ahead of the Sir Doug Nicholls Indigenous Round Gold Coast Assistant Coach Andy Lovell today reflected on being one of only three Indigenous Coaches in the AFL.  

Lovell is joined by Richmond’s Xavier Clarke and Fremantle’s Roger Hayden, who both hold the position of development coaches for their respective clubs.  

Speaking to media on Monday at the SUNS’ Elite Training and Administration Facility Lovell said he was please the AFL are able to highlight Indigenous culture through the Sir Doug Nicholls Round.  

“I’m really proud that I’ve been able to be in the industry as long as I have and obviously represent our culture,” he said. 

“My grandmother, she’s passed away now, its her side of the family that’s Indigenous. 

“Up until about five or six years ago I was the only Indigenous coach in the AFL. 

“Luckily we’ve got another couple now that’ve joined the ranks.”

Lovell said transitioning into coaching was an individual choice and the AFL had always been supportive of Indigenous coaches wishing to peruse the career path. 

“I think they’ve been incredibly supportive of me and the other two boys, the programs that they run I think are terrific,” he said. 

“I think we’ll continue to invest more time and resources into upskilling and educating young Indigenous coaches all over the country. 

“It’s obviously a great career move. We know that some of the greatest players ever to play have been indigenous players.