- John Longmire at centre of complaint about grand final aftermath
- Coach has now led the Swans to four straight grand final defeats
The AFL coaches association has raised concerns after beleaguered Swans coach John Longmire was forced to endure a humiliating series of moments following his side’s grand final defeat on Saturday.
One of the most respected figures in the game, Longmire had to conduct his post-match press conference against the backdrop of huge cheers and celebrations from Lions players who were living it up next door in the wake of the Swans’ 60-point drubbing at the MCG.
AFLCA CEO Alastair Nicholson contacted the AFL following the match, highlighting concerns about having a shattered coach answer questions while the sounds of celebration erupted every time the door to the Lions’ dressing room was opened.
A downcast Longmire had to pause several times during the press conference to wait for the cheering and singing to stop.
According to Channel Nine, there has since been confirmation that the league is keen to ensure the scenes never happen again.
Swans spokesperson Tom Chadwick also expressed concerns for Longmire.
‘It was extremely disappointing. The head coach shouldn’t have to put up with that, let alone (in) a grand final defeat,’ he said in a statement.
‘We stuck to time from the AFL and there were just two journalists in the rooms.
‘It’s not good enough for something that is so simple.
‘We will work with the AFL to ensure coaches are looked after post grand final losses.’
GWS coach Adam Kingsley has also come to the aid of his Sydney rival, saying the Swans coach deserves more respect.
‘That’s the first time I’ve seen that. That shouldn’t happen is my view,’ Kingsley said.
‘Whether the press conference should be held in another room that’s further away from the winning change rooms?
‘I don’t think John Longmire should have to sit through that while being asked questions about the game in an incredibly emotional state.
‘That would be very difficult to sit through and it looked like he dealt with it with great calm and composure, but that’d be incredibly hard.’
