Scott, 34, was appointed after the Board of Directors unanimously supported the findings of the working group, consisting of Brian Cook, Neil Balme, Steve Hocking, Gareth Andrews,Colin Carter and Diana Taylor, which was established to make a recommendation for the appointment of a new Senior Coach.
In a thorough interview process that consisted of several exceptional candidates, Scott impressed the working group with his long term strategy for the direction of the Football Club and demonstrated leadership in high performance environments. Chris' values, people management skills and exceptional technical expertise were also qualities that were highlighted during the appointment process.
Geelong Cats Chief Executive Officer Brian Cook said the Club was excited to have Scott take the helm of the Cats.
“This decision isn’t a decision solely based on 2011,” Cook said.
“This is a decision which supports the Club's long term future. We are looking for the next mountain to climb and also to build on what we have done over the last decade. We want to be bold in our future direction, and believe that Chris is the right person to drive our Good to Great Strategy and continued on field success.”
“We also have confidence in our playing group and staff that they will support Chris’ development and help him achieve the enormous coaching potential that we know he possesses.”
Cook also wished to acknowledge and thank the other candidates.
“The calibre of the other candidates was exceptional and we thank them for their time and efforts throughout the process.” Cook said.
Scott and the Club have agreed to a three year contract.
Scott said he was honoured to be coaching such a respected club.
“To be a senior coach at any club is an honour but to be senior coach of Geelong, a club that is so respected and revered around the competition, is something I consider to be an exceptional honour,” Scott said.
“I would also like to thank Fremantle for giving me the opportunity to learn the craft once I retired and I’ll have very fond memories of my time there.”
Scott played 215 games for the Brisbane Bears and Brisbane Lions from 1994 to 2007. After winning the Rising Star award in his first season, Scott went on to construct an exceptional career with the Lions including a best and fairest in 1998 and was a member of the 2001 and 2002 premiership sides.
Following his retirement in 2007, Scott was appointed as a Fremantle Dockers assistant coach in 2008 and has been involved in their rise up the ladder.
