A former Essendon Captain and one of the most respected players throughout his era, Heppell joined the Pies in 2026 as a Development Coach.

Having played in the league for 14 seasons with the Bombers and only retiring in 2024, he will bring recent and first-hand experience from his time in the AFL.

Primarily a defender and midfielder throughout his career, Heppell won a Club Best & Fairest, an All-Australian blazer in 2014, and the NAB Rising Star Award in 2011. 

He will work closely with the Club's Development coaching group who nurture the emerging talent on the list.