The Geelong Football Club today thanked Matthew Knights for his 10 seasons as a member of the coaching staff after Knights accepted an offer to join the West Coast Eagles.

Knights joined the Cats in late 2011, initially as coach of the Geelong VFL team, before moving into his role as assistant coach with the AFL program.

He guided the Cats to the VFL premiership in 2012, and Geelong has contested the AFL finals in nine of his 10 seasons at the club.

Geelong’s general manager of football Simon Lloyd praised Knights’ contribution to the club and wished him well with the Eagles.

“Matthew has played a significant role in our coaching group over his 10 years at the club,” Lloyd said.

“His work with our VFL team was exceptional, and he has done a great job with our midfielders in the AFL program. 

“Matthew has established fantastic relationships at the club, and no doubt these will remain as he continues his footballing journey. He has a really good opportunity at the Eagles and we wish he and his family well.”

Knights, while excited about the opportunity ahead, will treasure his time with the Cats.

“The club and the people have made my experience with the Cats a time in my life that will always be special,” Knights said.

“The Geelong community embraced me and my family, and we’ve loved not being with the Cats, but also living in such a great city. The relationships and memories will endure. 

“I loved coming to work everyday, to work with dedicated players, coaches and staff. The club through Chris Scott, Neil Balme and Steve Hocking gave me an opportunity to get back into coaching, and I am grateful for their faith in me. 

“West Coast has offered me a great opportunity and while I’m excited to head to the Eagles, I will miss the Geelong Football Club. I wish everyone at the club every success and thank everyone for the support and friendship that I have enjoyed since first walking in the door.”