Leading AFL reporter Sam Edmund has floated the ‘radical’ idea of North Melbourne appointing co-head coaches to replace the sacked Alastair Clarkson. With former Kangaroos players Adam Simpson and John Longmire being immediately linked to the role, Edmund has questioned whether they could do it together.
Part of the reason why Clarkson was moved on was because North Melbourne felt he hadn’t adapted quite so well to the modern game. And according to Edmund, what could be more modern than appointing two head coaches?
Could Sonja Hood and North Melbourne appoint co-head coaches? Image: Getty
“Could Adam Simpson and John Longmire do it together? If not, why not?” Edmund of SEN radio asked on Thursday. “Because it’s never been done? Because it’s radical? Because it would need serious corroboration between all parties?
“Yep, all of that. But footy is an ever-evolving industry of new concepts, new ideas and fresh approaches. Of clubs thinking outside the square to get a jump on the competition. And if any duo could make it work, it would be a pair of Kangaroos legends who have an excellent relationship.”
John Longmire and Adam Simpson are both premiership-winning coaches who played for North Melbourne. Image: Getty
Simpson and Longmire played together at the Kangaroos and now work together at Fox Footy. They’ve both won premierships as coaches – Longmire at the Swans and Simpson at the Eagles – and would be the best credentialed candidates available.
Edmund also flagged the possibility of one being head coach and the other the ‘director’ of coaching. “One to be the front man and the other to be the architect,” he said. “One to be the game-day voice and the other to do the heavy lifting during the week.
“Whatever the particulars look like, why couldn’t it be done? Simmo and Horse. Horse and Simmo.”
Adam Simpson and John Longmire played together at the Kangaroos. Image: North Melbourne Football Club
Adam Simpson and John Longmire respond
Speaking on AFL 360 on Wednesday night, Longmire and Simpson both said they’d let the dust settle on Clarkson’s sacking before making any potential decisions. On Thursday Simpson told SEN: “I am going to have a good think about it, and whether or not that opportunity presents itself will be determined by others, and not me.
“But if someone rang me today … I don’t know … I feel really comfortable doing what I am doing at the moment (in the media). I am going to have a good think in the next week, and have a talk to the family and see where that lands. I am sure ‘Horse’ (Longmire) will be the same, and (Fremantle assistant) Jaymie Graham and all the potential coaches.”
