Matthew Knights seemed lost to footy. These people helped bring him back

Matthew Knights, once thought to be lost to the game, has found a renewed purpose in Australian rules football following a concerted effort by several key figures in the sport. After a period of personal struggle and uncertainty, Knights has returned to the fold, taking on a pivotal role with the Tasmania Devils' VFL team and academy development program. The turning point came shortly after Jeromey Webberley assumed the role of Tasmania's first VFL coach. Club boss Brendon Gale suggested Matthew Knights as a potential assistant, prompting Webberley to respond with enthusiasm. This marked the beginning of a journey that would see Knights reconnect with the game he loves, despite the challenges he faced during his tenure with the West Coast Eagles. In the winter of 2024, Knights' connection to football appeared to wane as he grappled with personal issues exacerbated by being away from his family for nearly three seasons. However, a wave of support from family and close friends began to take shape, alongside assistance from three club executives who had long admired his ability to engage with young athletes. Trevor Nisbett, the longtime West Coast CEO who had previously recruited Knights from Geelong in 2021, was instrumental in ensuring that Knights did not lose touch with the game. Nisbett reached out to Steve Hocking, the Cats boss, and Brendon Gale, expressing his concerns regarding Knights' situation. He also brought the issue to the attention of AFL CEO Andrew Dillon, highlighting the importance of retaining such a valuable figure within the football landscape. Throughout 2025, Hocking, who was managing other complex situations including Tanner Bruhn's suspension and Bailey Smith's challenging debut, maintained regular contact with Knights. This support continued alongside Gale, who had been a steadfast companion and teammate from their days at Punt Road. Hocking's efforts were complemented by the contributions of Nigel Lappin, Geelong's head of development, and Mark Worthington, the player development manager, who worked closely with Knights to aid his recovery. By December of the previous year, the Tasmania Devils officially appointed Knights as their inaugural academy development coach. With Gale's efforts, Knights secured a full-time position encompassing both the VFL coaching role and the academy responsibilities. Since then, Knights has fully embraced his new environment in Hobart, engaging in daily routines that include his cherished coffee runs and early morning swims at Taroona Beach. In February, Knights visited Sydney to consult with his former vice captain, Wayne Campbell, who now oversees the Swans' $4 million academy. They also explored the Panthers' NRL setup in Penrith, further enriching Knights' understanding of modern sports development. Gale remarked on Knights' natural aptitude and how well he has adapted to Tasmanian life, noting his presence in local cafes and his physical fitness. Despite his current commitments, Knights continues to visit Geelong regularly to maintain ties with his family. Recently, he traveled to the Gold Coast for the under-16 championships before returning home. His extensive experience with the Geelong system has proven beneficial for the Devils as they establish themselves in a smaller community. Tasmania's academy program is still evolving, currently comprising 24 elite teenagers—12 boys and 12 girls, in a collaboration with AFL Tasmania and a new partnership with Hutchins School in Hobart. The initiative aims to cultivate and nurture the region's top young talent, with Knights playing a crucial role in its development.