Brad Scott’s departure from North Melbourne in 2019 differed from his dismissal at Essendon this week. At the time, Kangaroos president Ben Buckley described Scott’s offer to step aside as selfless and honourable. Scott expressed optimism about the club’s future and thanked board members, supporters and media. However, many believed he had left North’s playing list weakened. Commentator David King described him as a visitor. The club’s performance declined sharply in the following years. Scott was absent from the press conference announcing his exit from Essendon. Most observers agreed he was not the right fit and had never been fully accepted by the club or senior players. Doubts remained about the condition of the list he left at North Melbourne, and he was viewed as an outsider. The panel that recommended his appointment included former schoolmate Josh Mahoney, who has since left football; Andrew Thorburn, whose tenure as chief executive was brief; and Jordan Lewis and Robert Walls, who lacked a history of strong ties to Essendon. Scott faced a difficult task. He inherited issues from previous administrations, dealt with ongoing instability, and received late clarity on whether the club was rebuilding. He also faced a series of injuries. In a television interview, Scott spoke openly about the club’s struggles, including its failure to move past the supplements scandal and its desire for quick success. Some see a solution in James Hird, whom Scott defeated in a grand final 25 years ago. Hird nearly returned as senior coach in September 2022. Kevin Sheedy, who supported the move, was travelling at the time and later learned Hird had not been appointed. Hird remains a revered figure among Essendon supporters. He appeared at the club’s 150th anniversary event alongside Sheedy, emerging through smoke at the MCG in a striking moment. Current players and past legends formed a circle, evoking earlier eras. The past continues to influence the club through board discussions, media commentary from former players, and public statements. On a recent broadcast, Hird spoke about restoring the club’s standing. Years earlier, during a visit to Real Madrid, Hird asked José Mourinho about the key to success and received the reply to win quickly. That approach nearly damaged Essendon and affected Hird personally. Observers note that a young rebuilding list does not need such pressure. Hird has not coached at senior level for 11 years, has sought the top job twice before, and remains linked to the supplements scandal. Other candidates could provide a fresh start. The playing list shows potential, yet relying on a past figure would repeat previous errors.
