In an exciting new addition for the Western Bulldogs, former AFL Premiership defender Ben Reid has joined their coaching team for the upcoming 2025 season. Reid, who previously played 152 games with Collingwood, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Bulldogs as he steps into the role of Development Coach, focusing specifically on mentoring the club’s young forwards. His appointment places him alongside fellow coaches Jarryn Geary and Alex Johnson, creating a strong foundation for developing the next generation of Bulldogs talent.
Reid, a celebrated player in his own right, was part of Collingwood’s 2010 Premiership-winning team and earned All Australian honors the following season. Since his retirement from playing in 2020, he has stayed active in the sport, gaining valuable coaching experience with Wangaratta in the Ovens & Murray Football League. His connection to the Bulldogs runs deep, with his father Bruce having played 86 games for Footscray in the late ’70s and early ’80s. Reid’s family ties to the AFL are also significant, as his brother Sam recently retired from the Sydney Swans.
Upon joining the Bulldogs, Reid expressed his excitement about the new role and the opportunity to work with the team’s emerging forwards. “I’m thrilled to join the Bulldogs at such a dynamic time,” he said. “They have an incredible group of forwards, with both tall and small players who play an exhilarating style of football. Coaching has become a real passion of mine, and I’m eager to help build good habits and guide these players to long and successful careers.” Reid’s new role will allow him to work closely with players from the start of the pre-season, ensuring they develop both individually and as a team.
Reflecting on his career path, Reid noted that his journey has come full circle, as Bulldogs senior coach Luke Beveridge was his first development coach at Collingwood. Now, he looks forward to working alongside Beveridge once again and making a positive impact on the Bulldogs’ future success.
Reid is the latest addition to the Bulldogs’ coaching staff, filling the position left by Jamie Maddocks, who recently joined West Coast. His extensive experience and family history with the club make him a valuable asset to the team as they look to build on their strengths for the upcoming season.