Zach Merrett Reflects on Essendon’s Coaching Changes and Mentorship
Zach Merrett has spoken openly about the impact of coaching changes at Essendon, highlighting the role of James Hird as a significant mentor in his career. While he did not engage with the speculation surrounding the vacant AFL senior coach position, Merrett expressed his sadness over the sacking of former coach Brad Scott.
Merrett, who served as Essendon’s captain, shared his feelings on Tuesday night after the news of Scott’s dismissal. He remained tight-lipped about how this might affect his future as a player, especially considering his unsuccessful attempt to move to Hawthorn during the previous trade period.
Hird coached Merrett in 2015, early in his career, before stepping down from the role. Since making his debut in 2014, Merrett has experienced nine different senior coaches, including interim appointments like Dean Solomon. This constant change has been a defining aspect of his career.
Earlier on Tuesday, Essendon president Andrew Welsh suggested that Hird’s return was not out of the question. “I can only go off our relationship. It’s very strong,” Merrett said of Hird. “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.”
When asked about the potential for Hird to take over as coach, Merrett said, “In terms of coaching, it’s just such a good one for headlines. I’m not sure if it will eventuate or not.” He described the past 24 hours as a “whirlwind,” also paying tribute to Neale Daniher, another former Essendon captain, following his death on Monday.
Merrett was questioned about what Scott’s sacking might mean for his future, given ongoing speculation that he may seek a trade after this season. “I can’t – I woke up this morning assuming Brad was coach. I don’t think it’s the right point in time to have that conversation,” he said.
Welsh confirmed that Essendon expects Merrett to finish his contract, which runs until the end of next season. Merrett learned about Scott’s sacking by chance on Tuesday morning, hearing the news from a fellow customer at a cafe near the club’s Tullamarine headquarters.
“These things obviously get out quickly. There was probably never going to be a nice way or good way to find that out,” Merrett said. “I’m human, obviously. To have gone through five coaches now… you want to think about yourself, but it’s a team sport. You quickly try and pull yourself back into not making excuses and getting to work – we have so many players who haven’t experienced this before. It’s been one of those days.”
Merrett was speaking at a promotion for Japanese brewer Sapporo, an event arranged before the day’s events unfolded. “I’d love to tip in a few cold beers after the day I’ve had, but I might need to hold them until Sunday night (after their next game against West Coast),” he joked.
He also praised Scott, noting that the best 70-75 games of his career were played under his guidance. Reflecting on the frequent changes in coaching at Essendon, Merrett acknowledged the challenges. “There have been some dark days, no doubt. But everyone is dealt different cards in their footy journey and I’ve also had some great ‘ups’.”
