Thomson’s patience in its search for a new coach has been rewarded, with the club unveiling Western Bulldogs premiership player Clay Smith as its new coach.
The Tigers confirmed this afternoon that Smith will fill the vacancy left by Paul Lynch’s departure to Central Highlands club Ballan, which the 33-year-old, ironically, has previously coached.
The 33-year-old has signed a two-year deal as a non-playing coach.
“We are excited to welcome Clay to Godfrey Street, and believe his experience, football knowledge and commitment to player development will be invaluable as we look to build a strong and successful future for the Thomson Tigers,” a statement on Facebook said.
“We look forward to working with Clay as we embark on this exciting new chapter for our club, our players, and our wider football community.”
Smith played 55 games and kicked 43 goals for the Bulldogs after being drafted with pick 17 in the 2011 National Draft from Talent League club Gippsland Power.
The 33-year-old kicked a goal and had 13 disposals in the Doggies’ drought-breaking grand final win over Sydney in the 2016 decider.
The week before, Smith was a standout in the preliminary final win over the GWS Giants, finishing with four goals from 26 disposals.
He announced his AFL retirement in mid-2018 due to persistent injuries.
Smith has since been an assistant coach with Williamstown CYMS in the VAFA; he coached Point Cook in the Western League, including a grand final appearance in 2023; coached Ballan in 2025; and this year he was an assistant coach at Boulder City, which won the Western Australian Goldfields League premiership.
Thomson finished 10th this year with a 4-14 win-loss record, the club’s worst finish since claiming the wooden spoon in 2014.
X: @krockfootball
