Geelong legend Matthew Scarlett will take up a full-time role as development coach in 2016. Scarlett returned to the Cats this year in a part-time capacity, and will expand his role next season.

“Everyone was impressed by the work Scarlo did with our young players,” Geelong’s general manager of football Steve Hocking said.

“We saw great progress from many of our younger players and Matthew was a big part of this. He came back in a part time role but his work ethic meant he was here much more than expected, and the benefits were there to see. We believe our players will benefit from even more time under his coaching and mentoring.”

Assistant coach Dale Amos will seek new opportunities in 2016. Amos joined the Cats in late 2008 as VFL coach and progressed to AFL assistant at the end of the 2011 season. He joined the Cats after forging a successful coaching and playing career with South Barwon in the Geelong Football League, and went onto be a member of the coaching staff for the 2009 and 2011 premiership success.

“Dale had a significant role in the development of many of our young footballers and the program and players have improved and grown as a result of his efforts and care,” Hocking said.

“Dale’s progression as a coach from the GFL to his AFL role is a testament to his hard work and dedication. We wish him well in his future endeavours.”

Paul Hood will move from VFL coach to player development ahead of the 2016 season. Hood joined the Cats in 2011 and has served as academy co-ordinator, VFL coach and now as player development manager.

“Paul has spent the past five years working with our young players, mainly from a playing point of view,” Hocking said.

“This new role will see Paul spend more time with our young players from an off-field and educational aspect. He has great rapport with our players and we believe our players require all round development, and Paul will drive this in his new position.”