The tough questions Hird fielded during his Essendon coaching interview

August 25, 2026 — 11:51am

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When James Hird said his goodbyes after finishing his challenging interview before the panel charged with finding Essendon’s new coach, he was buoyant. On two fronts.

According to a senior industry figure with knowledge of the Bombers’ interviewing process, the former premiership captain and club great felt as if he had done all he could to reclaim a role he cherished, and one he had held proudly more than a decade ago before trouble struck.

But, just as importantly, he was also satisfied the Bombers had run a thorough process, where he was given the freedom to push his case, but – on the flipside – was spared no leniency.

That’s why, amid the disappointment of being overlooked in favour of great mate Mark McVeigh, Hird cannot complain.

“From a personal point of view though, it’s very disappointing,” Hird said on Nine’s Footy Furnace after it was confirmed that he, like Fremantle assistant Jaymie Graham and Adelaide coaching director Murray Davis, had missed out on the job.

“Yeah, I’m disappointed, put my heart and soul into the effort, but, obviously, fell short and that’s the way it goes.”

Before facing the selection committee of chief executive Tim Roberts, president Andrew Welsh, vice-president Anthony Di Pietro, board member and former Swans player Ted Richards and people and culture executive Caroline Monzon, Hird had felt the one issue that may torpedo his bid to........

© The Age