Simon Goodwin Finds Renewed Purpose in Sydney Swans Coaching Role
Simon Goodwin has embraced a significant career transition, moving from Melbourne to Sydney to become the Swans' inaugural director of coaching and performance. The former Demons premiership mentor sees this position as an opportunity to support second-year head coach Dean Cox while keeping his options open for a potential return to senior coaching in the future.
A Fresh Start After Melbourne Departure
Goodwin's move follows his departure from Melbourne in August, where he was dismissed after the Demons managed just seven victories. Despite this setback, his coaching legacy remains substantial, having guided Melbourne to their first premiership in fifty-seven years back in 2021. The Swans' football boss, Leon Cameron, approached Goodwin shortly after his Melbourne exit, planting the seed for this cross-city relocation.
The appeal of working alongside Dean Cox proved decisive, with Goodwin acknowledging that cross-town rivals GWS Giants had also expressed interest in his services. He views his new role as fundamentally supportive, describing Cox as "an incredible coach that's got a lot on his plate, and I'm just here to help him." Goodwin recognises the challenges Cox faced during his debut season, where injury-plagued Sydney finished tenth after a difficult start.
Rediscovering Coaching Passion
Goodwin's time away from football allowed for personal reflection, with the coach admitting he "reverted to being that five-year-old kid again" during his break. This period helped him rediscover football's deeper dimensions beyond mere competition, encompassing strategy, personal excellence, and community. He now brings this renewed perspective to a revitalised Swans football department.
The Sydney setup has undergone substantial changes beyond Goodwin's appointment. Jeremy Laidler has returned as an assistant coach after three seasons with GWS, while Fremantle legend Matthew Pavlich has taken over as chief executive, replacing Tom Harley. Goodwin appreciates being part of "environments where people strive to be great," finding the Swans' culture particularly appealing.
Defining the Director Role
When questioned about his specific responsibilities as director of coaching and performance, Goodwin responded with good humour while confirming his continued hands-on involvement with players. He has particularly focused on Sydney's midfield unit during preseason, working closely with emerging talents.
Highly regarded on-baller Errol Gulden has impressed during preparations after an ankle injury limited him to just fifteen rounds last season. Goodwin hinted at strategic versatility for Gulden, suggesting the young star might assume "a fair few different roles" alongside established midfielders Isaac Heeney and Chad Warner. Meanwhile, captain Callum Mills appears likely to maintain his half-back position, as previously indicated by Cox.
"It's been great to actually get back on the tools, that little bit more coaching within training," Goodwin observed. "It's a bit new for me as well, but we've certainly found our groove in the last month."
Sydney Lifestyle and Future Prospects
Goodwin isn't the only former Demon to relocate to Sydney recently, with 2021 premiership midfielder Clayton Oliver joining GWS during the offseason. The two maintained contact throughout their transitions, with Goodwin expressing pride in Oliver's personal development.
The coach has embraced Sydney's distinctive lifestyle, noting how "the incidentals of having a coffee and not having to talk footy is refreshing." He emphasises that this doesn't diminish football intensity at the club, but rather provides valuable balance away from the game.
Regarding his coaching future, Goodwin remains contemplative but open to possibilities. "I want to really do this job incredibly well and then have some time to really assess whether I want to get back into a head coaching position," he explained. "I'm still quite young in coaching terms. I'll certainly have a look at that down the path."
As Sydney Swans prepare for the upcoming AFL season, Goodwin's experience and fresh perspective could prove invaluable in their quest to return to competition prominence.
