Mark McVeigh appointed as Essendon senior coach

Essendon Football Club has officially appointed Mark McVeigh as its new AFL senior coach on a three-year contract through the end of the 2029 season. McVeigh, a former club vice-captain, transitions to the role from his position as an assistant coach with the Sydney Swans.

The appointment has sparked significant reaction from the Essendon fan base, with many expressing disappointment that club legend James Hird was not selected for the role. Hird, who was also a candidate, congratulated McVeigh but noted his own personal disappointment. McVeigh has expressed a desire to involve Hird in a coaching capacity at the club in the future.

McVeigh’s move comes amidst a period of turmoil for the Sydney Swans, following a scandal at the Pullman East Melbourne hotel involving player behavioral breaches and a separate police investigation. Essendon conducted due diligence during the recruitment process, and the Swans confirmed that McVeigh was not involved in the incidents.

Additionally, reports suggest that Essendon star Zach Merrett may seek a move to Hawthorn following the coaching decision, as he had previously indicated interest in playing under Hird.