One of the GIANTS’ most influential figures Luke Power has agreed to take up a role as the head coach of the AFL National Academy.

Power replaces Brenton Sanderson who held the position for two years before recently moving into a coaching role at Collingwood.

During his time with the GIANTS, Power’s impact has been significant. Power was the club’s inaugural co-captain in 2012, alongside Phil Davis and Callan Ward, before transitioning into a full time assistant coaching role in 2013, a position he has held for the past four seasons.

The 36-year old triple Premiership player recently relocated back to Melbourne with his family and moved into a new role in the GIANTS’ recruiting and list management team. 

GIANTS Chief Executive David Matthews congratulated Power on his AFL Academy appointment. 

“Luke has had a profound impact on our football club over the past five years and we thank him for his dedication to the GIANTS,” Mr Matthews said.

“His experience, expertise and character has undoubtedly shaped the GIANTS’ culture and helped grow the club significantly.

“This position with the AFL Academy is a wonderful opportunity for Luke and we have no doubt that he will excel in his new role.” 

GIANTS General Manager Football Wayne Campbell said Power would leave an indelible mark on the club.

“Luke had an enormous influence on so many of our young players as a team mate, coach and mentor,” Campbell said. 

“He has been a highly valued player and coach at the GIANTS and we wish him and his wife Anita and their two daughters the very best for this exciting next chapter. 

“We will now look to shortly appoint a replacement in the recruiting and list management team.”

Power’s new role will see him guide the overall development of the elite teenage players in the country as they prepare for possible AFL careers.

Having been drafted at pick five in the 1997 National Draft, Power went on to play 282 games including three premierships at the Brisbane Lions.  

He joined the GIANTS for the 2012 season, playing 20 games as inaugural co-captain. 

Power was an assistant coach to Kevin Sheedy in 2013 and Leon Cameron in 2014-16, most recently as midfield coach.