Doug Koop

Doug Koop (born 22 July 1960) is a former Australian rules footballer who played with South Melbourne, North Melbourne and Melbourne in the Victorian Football League (VFL).

Koop, a utility, played 15 games in three seasons at South Melbourne. He had perhaps his best match in 1980, against Carlton at Princes Park, when he had 22 disposals and kicked four goals.

He spent 1982 to 1984 in the SANFL playing with Woodville and then returned to the VFL at North Melbourne. Koop only made two appearances for North Melbourne in 1985 and just three more in 1986 before switching to Melbourne.

It was at Melbourne that he got selected most regularly and despite playing in both of his club's semi final wins of 1987 and 1988, he missed each of the preliminary finals.

Koop is currently coach of the Officer Football club, previously having coached Cranbourne and Frankston YCW. Despite finishing on top in 2010 Cranbourne was defeated in the preliminary final by Beaconsfield. Determined to make amends, Koop was driven to deliver success, something that had eluded Cranbourne since their halcyon days of the 90's.

Season 2011 proved to deliver the perfect season. Undefeated going into the finals Cranbourne met Narre Warren in the Grand Final and down early in the final quarter went on to capture the premiership.

Seeking premiership glory, Doug has now moved to the Officer Football Club where finishing top is the only pass mark. A tough task master, Doug is known for "my way or the highway" type tactics.

Doug Koop now holidays in Australia's best caravan park in Barooga, NSW - Cobram Barooga golf resort and is president of the Barooga fan club for Melbourne Demons past players.