Shane will be assisting with the AFL teams’ training sessions and coaching them during their Associated Catholic Colleges matches throughout the year.
Shane O’Bree, the former AFL star known for his remarkable 13-year career
with the Brisbane Lions and Collingwood Magpies, has been appointed as the
head coach of St Joseph’s College Geelong’s First XVIII team for the 2025
season. After a career that saw him play nearly 250 AFL matches, O’Bree is
now transitioning into a new role, working to shape the next generation of
talent at one of the most prestigious schools in the region.
O’Bree’s illustrious AFL journey began in 1998 and stretched over more than a
decade, a testament to his skill and resilience on the field. He made his mark
as a tough, hardworking midfielder, accumulating a wealth of experience in
the AFL. His contributions to the Magpies and Lions were significant, and
after retiring in 2010, O’Bree took his expertise into coaching. His most recent
roles included serving as the midfielder coach for the Gold Coast Suns, as well
as the head of Geelong’s VFL side and an assistant coach with the Cats.
This latest appointment sees O’Bree joining St Joseph’s College Geelong, a
school that has a rich history of developing elite football talent. His passion for
coaching young athletes, particularly in helping them reach their potential,
was a key factor in his decision to take on this exciting challenge.
“The opportunity to coach at St Joseph’s College is something I am very
passionate about, helping young people perform their best,” O’Bree said in a
statement to The Geelong Advertiser. “They have a rich history of producing
elite players, and to have the opportunity to work with some of the best talent
in the region was too good an opportunity to pass up.”
St Joseph’s College Geelong is no stranger to success in the AFL scene. Over
the years, it has produced more than 35 talented players who have gone on to
enjoy successful AFL careers. Some of the biggest names on this prestigious
list include legends like Jimmy Bartel, Cameron Ling, and Matthew Scarlett
—each of whom made significant contributions to the game. Even today, the
connection between the school and the Geelong Cats remains strong, with five
current players on Geelong’s roster hailing from St Joseph’s, including Tom
Stewart, Jack Henry, Ollie Henry, Tanner Bruhn, and Ted Clohesy.
O’Bree’s experience in the AFL system, both as a player and a coach, makes
him an ideal fit for the position. His deep understanding of the game,
combined with his passion for mentoring young players, is expected to have a
lasting impact on the school’s First XVIII team. He will not only coach the
team during their Associated Catholic Colleges games but will also play a key
role in guiding the players through training sessions throughout the year.
Principal Tony Paatsch expressed excitement about O’Bree’s new role and the
value his extensive experience will bring to the school’s football program.
“From our first meeting with Shane, we were excited about the development
and opportunity for our students to have someone of Shane’s experience guide
them,” Paatsch said. “Shane will be working with our AFL teams at training
and for their Associated Catholic Colleges games over the course of the year.”
Despite his new commitment to St Joseph’s College, O’Bree will continue his
role as a recruiter for the Geelong Cats. This dual involvement ensures that he
remains connected to the professional AFL system while also having the
opportunity to influence the next wave of stars coming through the ranks. His
ability to scout talent and help shape young players’ careers in both a coaching
and recruitment capacity makes him a key asset to both the school and the
AFL club.
Shane O’Bree’s new coaching role is a significant step in his post-playing
career and reflects his enduring commitment to the sport. As he works to
develop young talent at St Joseph’s College Geelong, his legacy in the AFL
continues to evolve. His presence at the school will undoubtedly inspire the
next generation of players, and with the strong ties between the college and
Geelong Cats, his influence in shaping the future of Australian football looks
set to continue for years to come.
