Mark Thompson

Mark was recruited to the Essendon Football Club in 1983 from Airport West.

He played 202 games for Essendon and played in 3 Premierships whilst at the “Bombers” (1984, 1985 and 1993). He was the Premiership Captain in 1993. Mark was also an AFL Pre-Season Premiership player in the same years.

During his illustrious career, he was awarded many accolades, including “Best and Fairest” (1987 and 1990) , “Most Improved Player” and Best Clubman” (1985) and his retirement from the game was in 1996.

His coaching debut came in 2000 and he was given the job of “rebuilding” a poorly performing side. In his first season they finished 5th. The next three seasons were disastrous and they finished outside the top eight. He job was in jeopardy but in 2005 they had a better year and he stayed.

2007 was the best year of his coaching career as he led the Cats to an impressive 100+ point win over Port Adelaide.

Mark has received due credit for his coaching abilities – being awarded with the Jock McHale Medal and the McClelland Trophy in 2007 and also the AFL Coaches Association coach of the Year in 2007 and 2008.