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THE speculation about the Coburg Tigers' new coach was rife. And it was right: Jade Rawlings has been locked in to replace SANFL-bound Andy Collins.
At 30, the former Hawthorn, Bulldogs and Kangaroos key-position player will almost certainly be the most youthful coach in the VFL ranks next season.
Coburg GM Ryan O'Connor said Rawlings, who retired at the end of 2006, had made a favourable impression in his first year as an assistant coach at Richmond and was ``extremely keen'' to pursue the Coburg coaching position when it became vacant.
``Jade presented very well to our board on a number of occasions throughout the interview process,'' Coburg president Lill Priest said.
``His communication skills and enthusiasm were standouts in his presentation, and the club is confident he's the right choice to continue the excellent work of Andy Collins, particularly in the important area of player development.
``On behalf of the Coburg club, I'd like to thank Andy for his contribution over the past couple of years and wish him all the best in his coaching role at West Adelaide.''
While Rawlings' primary focus will be the Coburg Tigers, he also will continue his involvement at Richmond as a part-time assistant coach.
Rawlings, who turns 30 next week, played 148 AFL games.
