Abbott aspiring to build the next steps of the Bloods culture

South Melbourne District Football Club was recently delighted to announce Nick Abbott as the senior men’s coach for 2023 after Patrick O’Callaghan made the decision to move into a different role within the football club.

Abbott brings a wealth of experience in coaching Premier side teams, he’s heads to SMDFC to continue moving up the divisions and build on the successful foundations O’Callaghan has set up.

With two promotions in two years it is evident that Patrick O’Callaghan has made his mark on SMDFC as the senior coach and they are so excited for the future. Instead of leaving the club completely, O’Callaghan is stepping up and into a brand new role – Director of Coaching.

As a growing club, having a Director of Coaching will enable SMDFC to put a focus on the development of all of their teams, strengthen the relationship between the junior and senior football clubs as well as build a direct pathway for over 18 players, on both the girls and boys team, into senior football.

Having this oversight across all senior teams will help to continue to develop the collaborative training they started in 2022 and ensure the amazing Bloods culture grows from strength to strength.

Paddy said “I am thrilled to take on this new role for both me and the club. The coaching panel we have assembled is fantastic and I am excited to work with them and the playing group.”

“We have big dreams at the Districts. This role will allow me to both support the coaches and work with the committee to continue to make the club atmosphere infectious.”

“We hope to lay the foundations for a sustained move up the divisions in women’s and men’s footy and have a bloody lot of fun doing so.”