A former premiership forward from Geelong has joined the GWS Giants in an advisory capacity, marking his return to the AFL in a coaching role. Cameron Mooney, a seasoned player with a successful career at North Melbourne and Geelong, will provide coaching to key-position players at GWS throughout the upcoming season. After winning flags with both the Roos and the Cats, Mooney, who retired in 2011 and previously worked in the media, expressed his excitement about his new coaching role with the Giants.
During his first day in the role, Mooney was impressed by the facilities and highlighted two players, veteran Jesse Hogan and forward Callum Brown, for their fitness and strength. Hogan’s physicality left an impression on Mooney, while he commended Brown’s strength, body, and timing, particularly considering his Irish background and still learning the game.
GWS’s Executive General Manager of Football, Jason McCartney, expressed enthusiasm about Mooney’s hiring, citing his 15 years of top-level playing experience and three premiership wins as valuable assets. McCartney anticipates that Mooney’s expertise will greatly benefit key position forwards and rucks within the team.
In addition to Mooney, the Giants have brought in former Richmond analyst Jack Harvey and strength and conditioning coach Andrew Rondinelli. Harvey, with a decade of experience at the Tigers and witness to three premierships, will serve as the Opposition and Player Analyst. Rondinelli, who has worked in the NRL, A-League, and AFL with Port Adelaide, joins as the Senior Physical Performance Coach.
After falling short in the 2023 season against eventual premiers Collingwood in the preliminary final, the GWS Giants are gearing up for the 2024 season with a strengthened coaching and support staff.
