Alex Johnson will step into the Footscray Victorian Football League coaching role after premiership coach Stewart Edge decided to step aside.
Having begun his coaching journey at Sandringham Dragons and GWS Giants during their inception years, Edge joined the Bulldogs’ AFL and VFL coaching teams in 2014, spending the next decade in a variety of roles across development and coaching.
He made the call to step down after guiding the Bulldogs to a premiership this year.
Edge was a key member of the VFL coaching panel that secured the 2014 and 2016 VFL premierships, before taking over the head coach position in 2021.
Edge claimed the 2021 coach of the year award during an undefeated Covid-interrupted season before receiving the award again in 2025, leading his side to a famous VFL premiership victory over Southport.
Edge couldn’t have been prouder of his time at the Kennel.
“I am very glad to have played my small part at the Bulldogs during such a significant era with Bevo at the helm,” he said.
“To be here for three VFL premierships and of course the 2016 AFL Premiership is something I will always value.
“Over this 12-year period, a huge number of players, coaches and staff have come through our doors and I am grateful to have made lasting friendships with so many of them. It has always been lots of fun.”
Alex Johnson will assume the reins of the VFL program after two seasons as a development coach, while Anthony Barry will move into AFL development after seven seasons in the VFL.
“With Edgey’s decision, it has opened the door to upskill our people and for AJ and Anthony these present great opportunities for their growth,” Bulldogs coaching and performance general manager Matt Egan said
“As VFL coach, Alex will run his own program, build a team around him and take on more responsibility recruiting players, coaches and staff.
“Anthony’s strengths lie in being a great connector of people, having spent a large period of time honing his craft in the VFL program.
“He played in the 2016 VFL Premiership and will be a great addition in our development space.”
