Sharks secure a Sun
NEAFL premiers lock in Primus as assistant
NEWLY-crowned NEAFL premiers Southport have been quick to bolster their coaching ranks by snapping up former Gold Coast assistant Matthew Primus.
The one-time Port Adelaide coach joined the Suns as an assistant in 2013 but was told in July his contract with the battling AFL club would not be renewed.
The 43-year-old steps on to a Sharks coaching panel that also consists of two former Gold Coast coaches, Stephen Daniel and Matthew Lappin.
Southport general manager of football operations Jarrod Field said Primus’ signature was a massive coup for the club as they begin preparations for the 2019 NEAFL premiership defence.
“Matthew has a great relationship with current coaches Steve Daniel and Matthew Lappin,” Field said.
“We believe his experience will be a huge asset for the club next season.”
Primus had a distinguished playing career, amassing 157 AFL games for Fitzroy and Port Adelaide, holding the Power captaincy from 2001-05 and twice earning All-Australian honours.
He retired at the end of 2005 before serving as an assistant coach at Port from 2005-10.
He took over the top job from Mark Williams midway through the 2010 season and held the post until the end of 2012.
In other potential AFL player movements, St Kilda are upbeat about their chances of signing GWS midfielder Dylan Shiel as he considers a return to his native Victoria.
Hawthorn are considered the frontrunners if Shiel decides to request a trade, with Carlton also in the running.
“We think we did a good job presenting the club in its best light and asking him how he can make the club better and what we can do for him and (partner) Georgie as St Kilda people,” Saints football manager Simon Lethlean told AFL Trade Radio.