Hayden Skipworth will lead Bendigo in their final season linked with Essendon as he replaces Shannon Grant as coach for the 2012 VFL Season.

“I am extremely excited about the opportunity to coach the club’s VFL affiliate and to further develop my coaching career,” Skipworth said. “Initially, it wasn’t something that I set out to achieve this season but the opportunity arose and I am thrilled to be able to lead Bendigo next year.”

Skipworth played 11 games for the Bombers in 2009 following a controversial Matthew Knights draft selection before injury forced his AFL retirement at the end of that season.