The North Footscray Devils have secured the talents of former AFL player Lynden Dunn for the upcoming 2026 season in the Western Football League. Dunn, who has an extensive background in Australian rules football, previously played 198 games with Melbourne and Collingwood, making a significant impact in the sport since being drafted in 2004.
Dunn’s contributions to the game are notable; he is a life member at Melbourne and currently manages Collingwood’s father-son and community pathway programs. The Devils announced through their social media platforms that Dunn would play an integral role both on and off the field. His involvement is expected to enhance the club’s performance and community engagement.
“Dunny brings an enormous amount of knowledge and experience across all levels of football, along with a genuine passion for developing young players and giving back to grassroots footy,” the Devils stated. In addition to playing, Dunn has accepted the position of director of coaching, where he will collaborate closely with the coaching staff to refine player skills and expand the football program.
Dunn’s journey continues as he transitions from his recent roles, which included playing with West Coburg in the Essendon District Football League and serving as player-coach at Caulfield in the Southern Football League. He joins fellow newcomers Nicholas Papakalodoukas and Abdi Fitaax, who are also set to strengthen the Devils’ roster. Papakalodoukas arrives from Tullamarine, while Fitaax previously played alongside Dunn at West Coburg.
The Devils will be led this season by Robbie Hudson, who takes over from David Battistella, who stepped down at the end of last season. With these new additions and a fresh coaching strategy, the North Footscray Devils are poised for a competitive season ahead.
The club expressed excitement for Dunn’s arrival, stating, “Join us in welcoming Dunny and his family to the club — a massive addition to our football program and community.” As the Devils prepare for the 2026 season, the focus remains on building a robust team capable of challenging for the championship after finishing as runners-up last year.
