James Hird’s Potential Return to AFL Coaching
James Hird, the former Essendon coach, is reportedly considering a return to senior AFL coaching. However, according to Matthew Lloyd, a former teammate and one of Essendon’s greatest players, Hird needs to first re-engage with clubland before he can realistically aim for a top coaching position.
Hird was in charge of the Bombers from 2011 to 2015, but his tenure ended amid the controversy surrounding the club’s supplements program. After stepping away from the game for several years, he made a tentative return in 2022, showing interest in coaching again.
In 2022, Hird joined GWS as a part-time assistant coach, but his time with the club was short-lived, lasting only one season. Since then, he has taken on a role with Port Melbourne in the VFL, where he serves as the director of coaching.
When asked by former Collingwood president Eddie McGuire about his ideal job, Hird expressed a clear preference for senior AFL coaching. Speaking on Nine’s Footy Classified, he said:
“You’d absolutely be a senior AFL coach, you would. If you love coaching, the passion for coaching and putting a team together is the highest thrill you can get outside of playing.”
However, Lloyd believes that Hird’s path back to the top might require more than just a desire for the role. He suggests that Hird should return to the AFL coaching system and work as an assistant coach to rebuild his credentials.
“I’d like to see James go back into the AFL coaching system,” Lloyd told 3AW on Friday night. “I think then he would get a (senior coaching) job within a couple of years, in my opinion. But I’m not sure being out there (in the VFL) at Port Melbourne, whether that’s holding him back.”
Lloyd compared Hird’s situation to that of Michael Voss, who worked under Ken Hinkley at Port Adelaide before eventually becoming a head coach. He believes that if Hird follows a similar path, he could secure another opportunity.
Examples of Successful Transitions
There are several examples of coaches who have successfully transitioned from media or lower-level roles to senior positions. One such example is Nathan Buckley, who took a role at Geelong as an assistant coach under Chris Scott after spending time in the media. Buckley is now aiming for the inaugural Tassie Devils coaching role.
Another example is Michael Voss, who joined Port Adelaide in 2015 after being sacked as coach of Brisbane. He worked as an assistant coach under Ken Hinkley until he was appointed as the head coach of Carlton at the end of 2021.
These examples highlight the importance of gaining experience at the club level before moving up to senior coaching roles. For Hird, the next step may involve returning to the AFL system and working closely with experienced coaches to rebuild his profile.
The Road Ahead for Hird
For Hird, the road back to senior coaching may not be straightforward. His time away from the AFL coaching system has left a gap that needs to be filled. By returning to clubland and working as an assistant coach, he can demonstrate his commitment and readiness for a higher role.
Lloyd’s advice underscores the need for patience and persistence. While Hird may have the passion and experience, the path to a senior coaching position requires careful planning and strategic steps.
As the AFL continues to evolve, the demand for experienced and passionate coaches remains high. Hird’s potential return could bring valuable insight and leadership to any team he joins. Whether he chooses to take the traditional route or explore other opportunities, the key will be to build a strong foundation before aiming for the top job.
