Nathan Buckley has taken his first big step towards becoming Tasmania's inaugural AFL coach, accepting an assistant role at Geelong.

After expressing interest in the Melbourne job, before eventually declining, Buckley has made no secret of his desire to lead the Devils for their anticipated entry into the AFL in 2028.

Speaking last month, Buckley replied "yes" when asked if he would accept an offer to be the inaugural coach of Tasmania.

King 'humbled' after beating Buckley to Melbourne coaching job

Melbourne surprises the AFL world by naming Geelong assistant Steven King as its new senior coach despite persistent links with Nathan Buckley.

"I am not sitting here saying like I assume that, expect that (Tasmania offer), this is all open spitballing," Buckley told SEN.

"But yeah, I've d

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