Essendon names new coach

BRAD Scott has officially been appointed as Essendon’s new coach.

Bombers president Dave Barham confirmed the news in an email to members on late last week.

It’s understood Scott only formally entered the process earlier that day but had been in dialogue with the club in the week leading up to the announcement.

Barham said the club’s coaching subcommittee met for the final time on Thursday afternoon to tick off Scott’s appointment, which was then confirmed in a board meeting.

In his email, Barham said, “We believe Brad has all the attributes to be the long-term coach of the Essendon Football Club. He’s a strong leader who will drive standards and establish a winning culture.

“We look forward to Brad getting started with us and working closely with the broader club and the football department for what will be an important pre-season.

“To our players, staff and members, please join me in welcoming Brad, his wife Penny and his two children Fletcher and Charles into the Essendon family.

“This is a clearly a significant day and another positive step forward for the club. We are under no illusions about the hard work ahead of us.

“By the same token, we are excited about the challenge of building a club that our members are proud of and one that delivers sustained on-field success.”

Scott was the AFL’s head of football throughout 2022 after taking on the role vacated by Steve Hocking.

He previously coached North Melbourne in 211 games, finishing with a win percentage better than 50 per cent and leading the Roos to consecutive preliminary finals.

– BY SEB MOTTRAM/ SEN