Dockers recruit Murphy for operations role

Former footballer Bob Murphy will reunite with two ex-teammates after being appointed to an operational role at the Fremantle Dockers.

The renowned Western Bulldogs captain and two-time All Australian will become the Dockers' new head of football operations and performance, taking on duties previously overseen by Joe Brierty (now the executive general manager of operations and people).

Murphy’s last off-field role was with the Bulldogs’ AFLW side where he worked within the leadership and culture team. He will reunite with ex-Bulldogs teammates Simon Garlick and Matthew Boyd, now Fremantle's chief executive and assistant defence coach.

In a statement, executive general manager of football and former Dockers star Peter Bell said the club was thrilled with Mr Murphy’s appointment.

“It was clear how highly valued and respected he was at the Western Bulldogs and these leadership traits will be especially important at Fremantle as we look to foster the development of our young and talented AFL and AFLW lists,” Bell said.

“It’s especially important to the club that Bob has been an incredible advocate of the AFL women’s competition and we are excited about him bringing that passion to Fremantle ahead of season six commencing in January.”

Murphy played 312 games for the Western Bulldogs across 18 seasons – including as captain for three seasons until his retirement at the end of 2017.