Dale Tapping joined Essendon at the end of the 2021 season after five seasons as Brisbane's midfield coach.

A talented VFA player in his own right, Tapping coached the Sandringham Dragons to the TAC Cup Premiership in 2011, before joining Collingwood's coaching ranks in a five-year stint from 2012.

He guided Collingwood's VFL side from 2013 to 2016, making finals in each season and being named the 2016 VFL Coach of the Year in a year that saw the Magpies reach a preliminary final.

With over 23 years of coaching experience and entering his second season at the Dons, Tapping is highly regarded for his excellent communication skills and ability to develop relationships to maximise players' talent.