The Bulldogs wasted no time in finding an internal replacement for outgoing coach Jamason Daniels, officially announcing Kirby's appointment on Tuesday night.
In an email addressed to players, members and supporters the Bulldogs touched on Kirby's influence on and off the field ahead of his tenure as senior coach.
“The TFNC is excited to announce the appointment of Paul Kirby as our head football coach for the 2020 season," it read.
“Paul Kirby is well-known around our club having played 254 senior games for the TFNC over the past 17 years.
“Paul has also played a number of GVL and Vic Country representative games.
“Paul played in both the 2003 and 2012 premierships.
“Paul has previously helped as an assistant coach of our under-18 team, and took on a role as an assistant coach to our senior team in 2019.
“Paul is now ready to take the step up as head football coach.
“Paul is a family man, and is supported by his wife, Michelle, and his daughter, Matilda.
“Paul is highly respected by his teammates, and will be a fantastic role model for all our young footballers.
“We look forward to an exciting year ahead.”
The club also spoke highly of Daniels and his work at the helm in a statement on Monday.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank Jamason Daniels for his time and effort as head football coach of the TFNC," the statement said.
“Jamason has been with our club for almost five years, and during his time, he has introduced a new level of professionalism to our club.
“Jamason has been a dedicated coach, and has been committed to the pursuit of on field success.
“He has had an instrumental role in fostering valuable relationships across the entire TFNC community, and has worked tirelessly to improve all grades of football.
“During the past five years, Jamason has gone above and beyond the expectations of a head football coach.
“His enthusiasm and dedication to the TFNC cannot be questioned.
“The TFNC wishes Jamason all the best with his future endeavours.”
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