The 38-year-old, son of former Richmond player Graeme has extensive experience in high performance sport across the AFL, NFL and A-League.

In his playing days he spent time on AFL and NFL lists. 

“The role is a great opportunity to come in and help steer development with an already well functioning team, helping to get more Tasmanians drafted into the AFL,’’ Bond said.

“I want to grow the talent and hit our targets, developing our boys and girls and grow the program for both future draftees and also players that feed back into local football in the state.

“I am passionate about creating the most elite desirable pathway for boys and girls in the state of Tasmania. 

“Programs that people want to be a part of and that we can all be proud of.  

“We will be putting our kids through the best possible training and programs to give them the best possible chance of success.”

His is a newly formed role at AFL Tasmania, adding a layer of high performance expertise to help lead the state’s rising stars and talent pathways.

He got a first-hand taste of the talent on offer when he witnessed the Mariners’ win over South Australia.

“I know the recruiters that I spoke to were incredibly impressed,’’ he said.

“It gave me a strong indication of the trajectory of this program, and it looks like I have come in at a good time.”