The LeasePlan Western Bulldogs are pleased to announce the appointment of James Fantasia as General Manager of Football.
James will join the Bulldogs from Adelaide where he has been the General Manager of Game Development at the South Australian National Football League. Prior to that role he worked for the Adelaide Crows for 12 years assisting the General Manager of Football Operations and heading up their national recruiting network.
Fantasia has been involved in eight AFL finals campaigns, 5 preliminary finals campaigns, a pre-season premiership and senior premierships in 1997 and 1998.
“He understands what it takes to create a success culture,” Rose said.
He will be responsible for the management of the Bulldogs’ football department including all aspects of football administration, development, leadership, sports science, management of medical, allied health and rehabilitation management, and football technology
Fantasia will report directly to the Western Bulldogs Chief Executive, Campbell Rose.
Campbell Rose said James offered the key attributes wanted by the Club when recruiting for the key position – strategic and analytical thinking, excellent communication, strong decision making skills, sound understanding of budgeting, the ability to delegate and empower staff with a strong commitment to football professionalism.
“He has extensive experience in the football industry. This is a great asset. James will provide us with a new insight into how we take our on-field football operations and performance to new levels. He knows success, has been a part of a successful culture and will help take our club to places it hasn’t been in recent times creating the success our members and board want,” Rose said.
James Fantasia said, “From a personal point of view it is a wonderful opportunity and challenge for myself and my family. I am very excited about the prospects of working with the Western Bulldogs Football Club in particular Rodney Eade and all involved in the football operations.
The club is about to embark on a new and exciting era with a newly completed state of-the-art Elite Learning Centre and I look forward to being a part of these exciting times. I would also like to acknowledge the SANFL for the support they have provided me at this point in my career. I am looking forward to being an integral part of the Western Bulldogs Football Club and I am grateful for the opportunity.”
Career History:
2007: General Manager, Game Development - South Australian National Football League
1995-2006: Recruiting Manager - Adelaide Football Club
1991-1995: State Development Director - South Australian National Football League
1993-1999: State of Origin Football Manager (Honorary Position) - South Australian National Football League
1988-1991: Technical and Development Manager - Norwood Football Club
