Essendon Faces Crucial Decision on James Hird’s Coaching Future
Essendon has been thrust into a critical decision regarding the future of their coaching position, with Ken Hinkley urging the club to make a definitive choice about James Hird before embarking on their search for a new coach. Just under a year ago, Hird expressed no interest in returning as the club’s AFL coach. However, recent developments have seen a dramatic shift in his stance.
On Tuesday night, Hird surprised many by putting his hand up for the vacant role following the sacking of Brad Scott. Scott was dismissed due to Essendon’s poor performance, and speculation quickly turned to Hird. Garry Lyon, a respected figure in the football community, even called for the club legend to take over once again.
Hird made a significant statement on Channel 9 during an appearance on ‘Footy Classified’. He emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough process to find the best possible coach for Essendon. “The most important thing for me as an Essendon person and what I want to see the football club to do … is for them to go through the most exhaustive process possible for them to find the best person to coach Essendon,” he said.
“If the club came to me and said would you be part of that process I would definitely say yes. That is something I would love to be part of, pit my wares against the other coaches and see if I am the best man for the job. If I am the best man for the job, yes I would love to do that job.”
This marks a major reversal from last year when Hird stated he had no desire to return to the role he held from 2011 to 2013 and 2015. At the time, he applied for the job in 2022, which ultimately went to Scott. Kevin Sheedy was the only board member to support Hird during that process.
The Controversial Return of James Hird
If Hird were to return to the coaching role, it would undoubtedly spark controversy. In 2014, he was banned for 12 months by the AFL due to his involvement in the supplements scandal. Although he returned in 2015, he later resigned after facing poor results.
Ken Hinkley addressed this issue on SEN radio, highlighting the need for clarity regarding Hird’s status as a potential candidate. “I think it’s really clear, Essendon now have to decide before anything else, before they ask any other person, they have to decide whether James Hird is going to be their coach,” Hinkley said.
“If they decide that, that’s what they should go with and they should do that. But I can’t imagine anyone entering the race for the Essendon coaching job, with James now looking like he’s one out, one back in the pole position with all the things that have gone on in the past.
“It looks like this is somewhat James Hird’s job and Essendon have got to decide if that is actually the way Essendon want to rebuild their club, they’ve got every right to do that, but they need to clear the air with that first.”
Earlier on Tuesday, Essendon president Andrew Welsh did not rule out the possibility of Hird’s return, stating that all options were still on the table. Former skipper Zach Merrett also shared his positive view of Hird, saying: “He’s been a great mentor and someone I can always confide in. From that perspective, I really get on well with him. He’s got a great viewpoint on the game.”
This situation presents a complex challenge for Essendon as they navigate their path forward. The decision regarding Hird will have far-reaching implications for the club’s future. Whether or not they choose to bring him back, the process must be transparent and inclusive to ensure the best outcome for the team.
