Shaun Hampson and Darcy Macpherson have joined North Melbourne’s AFL program in full-time development coach roles ahead of the 2026 season.

Hampson arrives at Arden Street having spent the last three seasons with Richmond, where he spent two years working with the club’s VFL and AFLW sides before moving into a full-time role in the women’s program in 2025. 

Prior to his time at Punt Road, Hampson spent three seasons at Carlton as the Blues' AFLW ruck coach.

As a player, Hampson had a 98-game AFL career with both the Blues and Tigers between 2007 and 2016.

Darcy Macpherson joins the football department following a standout inaugural season for North Melbourne’s VFL team. Macpherson captained the side and won the John Law Medal as the club's VFL best and fairest.

The 28-year-old played 97 games at AFL level for the Gold Coast Suns between 2016 and 2024.

North Melbourne general manager of football Todd Viney said he’s looking forward to seeing them both join the coaching ranks.

"Shaun is a proven AFLW coach and will integrate seamlessly into our program, especially considering we have some really promising developing tall players," Viney said. 

"Darcy knows many of our players well and has plenty to offer after his experience in the AFL system and an impressive 12 months within our VFL program. 

"We're looking forward to the fresh perspectives they will both bring to the coaching group."

2026 AFL coaching team

Senior coach: Alastair Clarkson
Line coaches: Xavier Clarke (forwards), Michael Barlow (midfield), Jed Adcock (defence)
Assistant coach - strategy: Zane Littlejohn
Head of development: Tom Lynch
VFL coach: Adam Marcon
Development coaches: Shaun Hampson, Jarrod Lienert, Darcy Macpherson