We see the same old Essendon every year: coaches being sacked, players being injured, and supporters being told to trust the process. When will we see a winning Essendon?
Since I was born, I have been a loyal Essendon supporter, and I have yet to witness a finals victory. For younger fans like myself, success isn't a memory; it's a story older supporters tell us. Every year, we purchase memberships, wonder if it's worth the extra money for a guaranteed seat for the finals, attend games, and persuade ourselves this year will be different. Yet somehow it never is.
The Bombers need more than just a new coach; they need someone who bleeds the red and black.
My personal opinion is James Hird should be our next coach; he has Essendon in his blood, and he may be the spark that lights the fuse. Why Hird?
In 2013, the Bombers won 14 of their 21 matches under Hird before the supplement's saga prevented the club from playing finals. The saga is now over a decade old.
For Essendon supporters the return of Hird would be a fairytale but perhaps a godsend for the AFL if he begins to turn things around.
He has the coaching ability to lead our team to a final, and young guns like Nate Caddy, Sullivan Robey and Jacob Farrow represent the hunger to play on the prestigious day in September. What is missing now is developing a robust and resolute playing group, something Hird can deliver.
Unlike many other names linked to the role, Hird understands Essendon in a way that cannot be taught. He knows the expectations, the pressure and the standards that come with donning the sash. Neither Ken Hinkley nor John Longmire has the emotional connection to the club Hird possesses. He has experienced Essendon at its highest as a player and understands what a successful culture looks like at the Bombers.
As a player, Hird won two premierships, a Brownlow medal and five Crichton Medals and was named in the All-Australian side five times. Although he is most known for his leadership, determination and the ability to inspire those around him. Those qualities could be exactly what Essendon needs: someone capable of rekindling club passion within the playing group and guiding the club back towards on-field success.
Hird's story is written on the walls of Windy Hill. His grandfather, Allan Hird senior, was an Essendon premiership player and club president. The Allan T. Hird Stand is a monument to a family whose contribution helped shape the club's history.
Speaking on Channel Nine's Footy Classified last month, Hird confirmed he wants to be involved in the coaching interview process.
“If I'm the best man for the job, yes, I would love to do that job,” Hird said.
“The spirit of Essendon is not there; we are at ground zero."
Few words could describe the club that has not won a final in more than 7000 days.
Injuries can explain some struggles, but they cannot explain two decades of defeat.
The same old Essendon don't need another reset; they need reignition, something James Hird's passion, leadership and understanding of the club can deliver.
