Tributes pour for 'universally loved' AFL coach Dale Tapping (59)
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The sport community mourns the passing of one of its most respected figures.
Dale Tapping, a coach admired for his tactical acumen, character and influence on the game, passed away at 59 years old.
Tapping's passing left a void in the hearts of many within the sport.
Dale Tapping, who was recently appointed as Essendon VFL senior coach, passed away after a valiant battle with myeloma, a form of blood cancer.
He was diagnosed with myeloma two years ago, which prompted intensive care.
With a coaching career spanning over 28 years, Tapping was named VFL Coach of the Year in 2016 while at Collingwood.
His journey began at the local level with roles at Old Brighton and Old Scotch in the VAFA.
He later brought his expertise to the Brisbane Lions.
Despite stepping back from his coaching duties in 2023, Tapping's resilience and dedication to football never wavered.
His commitment saw him in a pivotal role as he led the Bombers' forwards in 2024.
The news of his passing sent shockwaves through the AFL as tributes poured in from colleagues, players, and fans alike.
Essendon president David Barham eloquently described Tapping as a 'man of impeccable character' and was 'universally loved' by everyone.
'He has left a lasting impact on the Essendon Football Club and across the broader football community and will be remembered as a selfless individual whose passion and care for people and the game was evident in everything he did,' Mr Barham wrote in a statement.
Essendon coach Brad Scott also paid homage to his friend and colleague and shared Tapping's profound impact on players and staff.
'Dale's dedication to their growth—both on and off the field—along with his genuine love for seeing people succeed, were qualities admired by all,' Coach Scott added.
'It was a privilege to have coached with him, and his legacy at the club will endure through the players and staff he mentored throughout his career.'
'Dale will be deeply missed by the AFL industry and everyone at the Bombers,' Coach Scott ended.
Tapping's influence extended beyond Essendon, as he previously served as a trusted adviser to Chris Fagan.
'I met Dale at a Leading Teams leadership seminar in 2016. I immediately admired his enthusiasm and love for coaching and AFL football,' Chris Fagan stated.
'Dale was exactly the type of person and coach that we needed, so I gave him a call, and he and his family agreed to come. He was just as I thought he would be during his five years of service, and he influenced our progress significantly.'
Former Hawks player and Carlton AFLW coach Daniel Harford shared his sorrow upon Dale Tapping's passing.
'This is unbelievably sad. Tapps was one of the absolute good guys in footy and a brilliant coach, mentor and friend to many,' Coach Harford shared.
Former Collingwood VFL player Alex Woodward echoed these sentiments and described Tapping as 'one of the greatest he ever met'.
Tapping is survived by his wife, Kellie, and his children, Summer and Mason.
The AFL world, united in grief, will continue to honour Dale Tapping's memory and the profound impact he left behind.
May he rest in peace.
Dale Tapping, a coach admired for his tactical acumen, character and influence on the game, passed away at 59 years old.
Tapping's passing left a void in the hearts of many within the sport.
Dale Tapping, who was recently appointed as Essendon VFL senior coach, passed away after a valiant battle with myeloma, a form of blood cancer.
He was diagnosed with myeloma two years ago, which prompted intensive care.
With a coaching career spanning over 28 years, Tapping was named VFL Coach of the Year in 2016 while at Collingwood.
Dale Tapping was a well-respected coach in the AFL. Image Credit: Essendon Football Club
His journey began at the local level with roles at Old Brighton and Old Scotch in the VAFA.
He later brought his expertise to the Brisbane Lions.
Despite stepping back from his coaching duties in 2023, Tapping's resilience and dedication to football never wavered.
His commitment saw him in a pivotal role as he led the Bombers' forwards in 2024.
The news of his passing sent shockwaves through the AFL as tributes poured in from colleagues, players, and fans alike.
Essendon president David Barham eloquently described Tapping as a 'man of impeccable character' and was 'universally loved' by everyone.
'He has left a lasting impact on the Essendon Football Club and across the broader football community and will be remembered as a selfless individual whose passion and care for people and the game was evident in everything he did,' Mr Barham wrote in a statement.
Essendon coach Brad Scott also paid homage to his friend and colleague and shared Tapping's profound impact on players and staff.
'Dale's dedication to their growth—both on and off the field—along with his genuine love for seeing people succeed, were qualities admired by all,' Coach Scott added.
'It was a privilege to have coached with him, and his legacy at the club will endure through the players and staff he mentored throughout his career.'
'Dale will be deeply missed by the AFL industry and everyone at the Bombers,' Coach Scott ended.
Tapping's influence extended beyond Essendon, as he previously served as a trusted adviser to Chris Fagan.
'I met Dale at a Leading Teams leadership seminar in 2016. I immediately admired his enthusiasm and love for coaching and AFL football,' Chris Fagan stated.
'Dale was exactly the type of person and coach that we needed, so I gave him a call, and he and his family agreed to come. He was just as I thought he would be during his five years of service, and he influenced our progress significantly.'
Former Hawks player and Carlton AFLW coach Daniel Harford shared his sorrow upon Dale Tapping's passing.
'This is unbelievably sad. Tapps was one of the absolute good guys in footy and a brilliant coach, mentor and friend to many,' Coach Harford shared.
Former Collingwood VFL player Alex Woodward echoed these sentiments and described Tapping as 'one of the greatest he ever met'.
Tapping is survived by his wife, Kellie, and his children, Summer and Mason.
May he rest in peace.
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