Longmire Backs McVeigh for Essendon Role: ‘If He’s Not Ready Now, He’ll Never Be Ready’
As the Essendon coaching search intensifies, former Sydney premiership coach John Longmire has thrown his support behind Mark McVeigh, one of the front-runners for the top job at The Hangar. Speaking on 3AW Football, Longmire praised McVeigh’s readiness, stating, “If he’s not ready now, he’ll never be ready.” He added, “He knows football, he knows how to keep and set standards.” McVeigh, currently an assistant at the Swans, is considered the favourite ahead of Bombers great James Hird, and his endorsement from a coaching mentor of Longmire’s stature carries significant weight.
Longmire’s comments come after he officially ruled himself out of the vacant Essendon and Carlton roles, following his unsuccessful bid for the Tasmania Devils’ inaugural coaching position. Ken Hinkley was announced as the Devils’ coach this week, with Longmire having been among the top candidates alongside Nathan Buckley. Longmire’s decision to step aside from the race for these high-profile roles underscores his belief in the next generation of coaches, particularly McVeigh, whom he has mentored closely.
The endorsement is particularly timely, as McVeigh finds himself in an unusual position this Sunday: coaching against his potential new employer. As a Swans assistant, he will be on the opposite side of the fence to Essendon, a scenario that adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already compelling contest. Longmire’s public backing not only boosts McVeigh’s credentials but also signals to the Essendon board that the candidate has the respect and confidence of one of the game’s most respected figures.
With the coaching decision edging closer, Longmire’s words may prove pivotal in swaying opinion. His assertion that McVeigh is ready for the senior role is a powerful testament to the candidate’s preparation and character. As Essendon weighs its options, the endorsement from a coach of Longmire’s pedigree could be the decisive factor in securing McVeigh’s appointment, marking a new chapter for the Bombers under a leader who has been publicly vouched for by one of the
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