Thomson has announced 2016 Western Bulldogs premiership player Clay Smith as its senior football coach for the 2027 and 2028 seasons.
Smith, who played 55 AFL games, brings extensive coaching experience to Godfrey Street following senior coaching stints at Point Cook (2023–24) and Ballan (2025).
The former Bulldog spent the 2026 season as a senior assistant coach at Bolder Football Club, having previously held an assistant coaching role at Williamstown VFL.
The Tigers are confident Smith's experience, competitiveness and commitment to player development will help guide the club into an exciting new era.
