The GIANTS would like to thank and congratulate Head of High Performance, Nick Poulos, for his contribution to the club over a remarkable seven-year tenure.
Poulos joined the GIANTS in October 2018, bringing with him a wealth of experience across elite sport, including roles with the Australian Rugby 7s team where he served as Head of Athletic Performance, as well as Head of High Performance at the Adelaide Crows.
He led the club’s High-Performance program through the significant challenges of two COVID-interrupted seasons and played an instrumental role in preparing the team for five finals appearances since his arrival - an era that includes the club’s first Grand Final appearance in 2019.
Poulos was also part of the working group to design and implement the club’s new state-of-the-art aquatic and recovery facility which opened in July this year.
His career spans more than two decades and includes key positions in not only the AFL but across rugby and athletics programs nationwide, highlighted by his involvement in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, 2016 Olympic Games, 2018 Commonwealth Games and Rugby Sevens World Series
Known for his meticulous manner, elite standards and deep care for the playing group, Poulos has been a cornerstone of the club’s football program over the past seven years.
Reflecting on his decision to step away, Poulos said:
“The decision to step back was certainly not an easy one as I have so much love for this group of players who are destined for great things. To continually put themselves forward to compete in finals is special and feel we are so close,” he said.
“I have the utmost respect and admiration for the work ethic and attitude of such a tight-knit, close playing group and it has been an absolute joy to support them.
“I am extremely grateful for the support that Jason McCartney and Adam Kingsley have afforded me through this decision and over the last few years in particular.
“I have absolutely enjoyed what Adam and the coaching group have been able to instil in our players and I cannot wait to see all our staff and players who work so tirelessly achieve the ultimate prize.
“Finally, I feel privileged to have collaborated with and been supported by an unbelievable High-Performance Department who are the driving force behind the scenes to support sustained success.”
GIANTS Executive General Manager of Football, Jason McCartney, paid tribute to Poulos’ impact on the football program.
“Nick has played a pivotal role in shaping the elite standards of our football program over the past seven seasons,” McCartney said.
“His knowledge, professionalism and care for his athlete make him a highly respected and much-loved figure within our club.
“We thank Nick for his immense contribution to the GIANTS and wish him all the very best in this next chapter in his life and career.”
Poulos will work with the club to find a suitable replacement and despite stepping away will remain in the high-performance industry in a consultancy capacity.
