Buckley returns to coaching fold with Victorian club

• TRADE LIVE: All the latest news and rumours

Geelong has secured a major addition to their coaching ranks, with former Collingwood head coach Nathan Buckley joining the Cats as an assistant coach.

The brilliant footy mind spent 10 years amongst the coaching ranks at AFL level, leading Collingwood to five finals campaigns and a Grand Final before stepping into the media space in 2021.

A regular on SEN, Buckley turned down the opportunity to take on the Melbourne Demons head coaching role, and steps into Geelong despite strong links to the Tasmania Devils head coach position.

“We are excited to add Nathan to our Club and more specifically to our coaching group. He is respected and highly regarded across the football industry and brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective,” the club's Executive General Manager of Football, Andrew Mackie, said.

“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.”

The Devils have released a statement regarding the Geelong appointment of Buckley.

It reads: "Tasmania Football Club acknowledges and congratulates Nathan Buckley on his appointment to Geelong Football Club.

"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."