Brad Scott’s departure from Essendon this week was markedly different from his exit at North Melbourne in 2019, when he was praised as selfless and honourable. At Essendon, Scott was not at his own press conference, and many felt he was never the right fit, burdened by the club’s past mistakes and instability.
The selection panel that hired Scott included former schoolmate Josh Mahoney, short-lived CEO Andrew Thorburn, and Jordan Lewis and Robert Walls, who lacked a track record of affinity with Essendon. Scott inherited a mess and faced a wretched run with injuries, but the club’s failure to move on from the supplements scandal and its desperation for instant success hampered him.
James Hird, who blanketed Scott in a grand final 25 years ago, came close to reclaiming the top job in September 2022. Former coach Kevin Sheedy was confident Hird would be appointed, but he missed out. Hird remains a revered figure among Essendon supporters, and his spectre looms large over the club.
At Essendon’s sesquicentennial celebrations, Hird emerged through smoke at the MCG, linking arms with players and legends. However, the team was blown away by Patrick Cripps and Carlton. The past is ever-present at Essendon, from board rumblings to media commentary from former players.
On Footy Classified, Hird spoke of making Essendon great again. In 2013, he sought advice from José Mourinho, who told him to “win, quick.” That urgency nearly destroyed Essendon and nearly cost Hird his life. Now, with a young rebuilding list, a return for Hird, who hasn’t been a senior coach for 11 years, may be the last thing the club needs.
