In a surprise appointment, Steven King has been named the new head coach of the Melbourne Demons. The former AFL ruckman and respected assistant coach takes charge following the club’s search for fresh leadership. King, who was one of five candidates interviewed for the job, is known for his tactical insight and strong player relationships as he is expected to bring a new edge to the Demons’ game plan.
King replaces Simon Goodwin, who was dismissed last month with a year left on his contract. He previously gained senior coaching experience in 2023, guiding the Gold Coast Suns for seven games on an interim basis following the departure of Stuart Dew.
"Steven brings an abundance of experience from across the league, having held coaching positions at St Kilda, the Western Bulldogs, the Gold Coast Suns and Geelong. I think it’s safe to say he was pretty impressive on the field too," said Demons president Brad Green while confirming the appointment on Friday.
"Steven has elite football IQ and a deep understanding of the game. He is highly competitive, places a strong focus on connection, and has a coaching philosophy we think our players will thrive under. During the appointment process, it became more and more clear that Steven was the ideal candidate for us," Green added.
After a 15-year playing career that spanned more than 140 games with Geelong and St Kilda, King transitioned into coaching soon after his retirement.
"I began my AFL career in 1996 and have experienced it all across the past 30 years. I’m excited to bring my experience to the club and see what we can achieve, together, from next season and beyond," King said in a statement.
"I can’t wait to meet the playing group, my fellow coaches, the staff, and the Demon faithful, and start building towards 2026."
Add Now!
King replaces Simon Goodwin, who was dismissed last month with a year left on his contract. He previously gained senior coaching experience in 2023, guiding the Gold Coast Suns for seven games on an interim basis following the departure of Stuart Dew.
"Steven brings an abundance of experience from across the league, having held coaching positions at St Kilda, the Western Bulldogs, the Gold Coast Suns and Geelong. I think it’s safe to say he was pretty impressive on the field too," said Demons president Brad Green while confirming the appointment on Friday.
"Steven has elite football IQ and a deep understanding of the game. He is highly competitive, places a strong focus on connection, and has a coaching philosophy we think our players will thrive under. During the appointment process, it became more and more clear that Steven was the ideal candidate for us," Green added.
After a 15-year playing career that spanned more than 140 games with Geelong and St Kilda, King transitioned into coaching soon after his retirement.
"I began my AFL career in 1996 and have experienced it all across the past 30 years. I’m excited to bring my experience to the club and see what we can achieve, together, from next season and beyond," King said in a statement.
"I can’t wait to meet the playing group, my fellow coaches, the staff, and the Demon faithful, and start building towards 2026."
Add 
as a Reliable and Trusted News Source
as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now!
