Old Xaverians Football Club President Matt Cosgrave announced today that Matthew 'Chopper' Handley has been appointed the Under 19 Premier Coach of the Red ‘n’ Blacks for the 2024 season.

Chopper takes the reins from outgoing coach Daniel Rush, who stepped down from his role after back-to-back premierships in 2022 and 2023.

After breaking the OXFC games record in the 2023 Reserves premiership, Chopper has decided to turn his attention to the coaching and development of our youngest members.

“I am delighted that Matt Handley will be continuing his involvement with the Old Xavs as our Under 19 coach and taking charge of our future stars,” Cosgrave said.

“The Under 19 program is incredibly important to the club, and the coaches play a huge part in its success. The committee has great confidence in Chopper and his ability to lead the program.

“Chopper is a high-calibre person and his calm demeanour, combined with his fierce competitiveness, will be a great asset for the club as a coach," Cosgrave said.

Chopper is excited for his next adventure in red and black.

“Having started my Under 19 journey in 2004, it's amazing to see the size of the program today. I'm honoured and thrilled to be able to give back to the club and help instil standards that will help the players along their Old Xavs careers"

"It's an incredibly important time of their lives as they transition from school to senior football, and it's important that it's an enjoyable process as they are introduced to this great club," Handley said.

"I'm excited to be able to work with all the Under 19 coaches, players, volunteers and parents to continue to grow on last years success," he said.

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As a player:

Handley began his playing career with the Old Xavs U19s in 2004. He went on to play 312 games, including 267 seniors games, and kicking 920+ goals. Along the road he won:

5 x Senior Premierships (2007, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2016)

2 x Reserves Premierships (2022, 2023)

4 x A Grade leading goal kicker

8 x VAFA Team of the Year

He is also the first OXFC Life Member to be inducted while still playing.
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We welcome Chopper to the Old Xavs coaching group and are excited for what is to come. Go Xavs!

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