North Shore’s quest to climb out of the footballing mire has received a significant boost with favourite son Wade Chapman appointed as coach of the GFNL club ahead of its centenary celebrations in 2027.
Chapman, whose last official involvement at Windsor Park was a two-year stint as coach in 2005-06, where he guided the Seagulls to the minor premiership in his first season, has signed a three-year deal to replace Mark Hounslow.
The 50-year-old was born into North Shore royalty, with grandfather Bill Nicholls Snr arguably one of the most influential figures in the club’s history, while father Peter and brother Corey are both premiership players at the club.
“North Shore has always been much more than a football club to me,” Chapman said in a statement.
“It’s where my football journey began and where my family has been part of the club’s story for generations.
“To have the opportunity to come home and lead the club into its centenary year is incredibly special.
“I’m excited by the challenge ahead and committed to working with our players, coaches, volunteers, members and supporters to build a strong culture and create an environment that everyone connected with North Shore can be proud of.”
A talented junior, Chapman was drafted from the Geelong Falcons by AFL club Sydney in 1993, and went on to play 51 matches for the Swans.
He is best remembered for passing the ball to Tony Lockett in the 1996 preliminary final, which resulted in the legendary forward kicking a behind that put Sydney into its first grand final in 51 years.
After leaving the Swans, he joined Port Adelaide, but didn’t make a senior appearance for the Power.
Following his first coaching stint at North Shore, Chapman joined Bellarine club Drysdale, guiding the Hawks to consecutive premierships in 2009-10.
He returned to Drysdale for another three years in charge from 2016-18.
Chapman also coached Werribee Districts in the Western Region league and served as an assistant with VFL club Werribee.
Most recently, he has been an assistant coach with GFNL club Geelong West.
“Recruiting Wade back to the club with his extensive coaching and playing pedigree is very important for our continued growth,” president Mayian Szponar said.
“Obviously we’ve been fighting our way through some challenging times, building a platform of stability. With Wade’s return to Windsor Park, we’re planning to move past just surviving to thriving.
“As we approach our 100th year, I think it sends a positive message that we are on the move in the right direction, hunting for ways to get better.
“The Chapmans are a great North Shore family. We are rapt that Wade’s on board.”
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