Foley will make the move to the Border from Mangoplah Cookardinia United Eastlakes, where he has spent the past four seasons developing his coaching credentials.
Foley’s finals record speaks for itself featuring in the last four finals series, in the Riverina Football league.
Livingston will continue in an expanded role after making a strong impression during his first season as assistant coach at the Roos.
The pair will take the reins from former coach Daryn Cresswell, who has guided Corowa-Rutherglen across the past two seasons, with the club confident the coaching combination can build on the foundations already established.
Corowa-Rutherglen co-presidents Rowena Black and Beau Longmire said Foley's combination of playing experience and coaching development made him an ideal fit for the role.
“The club is excited to see a new era of co-coaching with Nelson and Sam taking the reins,” Rowena said.
“We look forward to seeing our club culture continue to build positively on the last few seasons under these two coaches and giving players opportunities to develop and compete at this level in our local community.“
“We look forward to seeing our club culture continue to build positively on the last few seasons under these two coaches and giving players opportunities to develop and compete at this level in our local community.“
Beau Longmire said Nelson’s state-level playing experience at a successful organisation in Ainslie, had honed his coaching craft as part of a semi-rural based club at Mangoplah.
“He has a strong desire to coach at a higher level,” Beau said.
Foley took sole charge for two seasons before returning to a co-coaching role this year.
His departure from Mangoplah was met with high praise from the club, which credited Foley with helping establish a strong football program and developing a pathway for younger players into senior football.
Livingston will provide the other half of the coaching partnership after making a significant contribution since arriving at the club 12 months ago.
The former Murray Bushranger brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience to the role, having made his senior debut as a 14-year-old before progressing through the Murray Bushrangers, where he was appointed captain in his top-age season.
Livingston's playing career included stints at state league level in both the VFL and SANFL before returning to north-east Victoria, where he spent two seasons with the Wodonga Bulldogs.
His coaching experience includes two seasons as senior coach at Tallangatta, along with assistant coaching roles at Osborne, Wodonga and Corowa-Rutherglen.
The Roos believe the combination of Foley and Livingston will provide the club's young playing group with the support required to continue its development in what is regarded as one of country football's most demanding competitions.
“Sam Livingston has made a huge contribution since arriving at our club 12 months ago,” Beau said.
“He has impressed everyone, not just our players, with his care and connection.
“His football knowledge and experience is well documented.
“We believe Ovens & Murray coaching is a demanding role, and having Nelson and Sam as co-coaches will support our young list, and build on the strong foundation that Daryn Cresswell has laid for us over the last two seasons.”
