- John Longmire at the center of the complaint about the aftermath of the grand final
- The coach has now led the Swans to four consecutive grand final defeats
The AFL coaches association has raised concerns after beleaguered Swans coach John Longmire endured a humiliating series of moments following his side’s grand final defeat on Saturday.
Longmire, one of the most respected figures in the game, had to hold his post-match press conference against the backdrop of huge cheers and celebrations from Lions players living it up next door in the aftermath of the Swans’ 60-point thrashing against the MCG.
AFLCA CEO Alastair Nicholson contacted the AFL after the match, highlighting concerns about a shattered coach answering questions as the sounds of celebration erupted every time the door to the Lions’ dressing room was opened.
A dejected Longmire had to pause several times during the press conference to wait for the cheering and chanting to stop.
According to Channel Nine, it has since been confirmed that the league wants to ensure the scenes never happen again.
Swans spokesman Tom Chadwick also raised concerns about Longmire.
‘It was extremely disappointing. The head coach should not tolerate that, let alone a grand final defeat,” he said in a statement.
“We stuck to the AFL era and there were only two journalists in the rooms.
Swans coach John Longmire’s post-AFL grand final press conference was interrupted by celebrations next door
Longmire had to pause several times during the press event due to the singing sounds coming through the walls
‘It’s not good enough for something so simple.
“We will work with the AFL to ensure coaches are taken care of following Grand Final losses.”
GWS coach Adam Kingsley has also come to the defense of his Sydney rival, saying the Swans coach deserves more respect.
‘That’s the first time I’ve seen that. That shouldn’t happen, in my opinion,” Kingsley said.
‘Whether the press conference should be held in another room, further away from the winning dressing rooms?
Sydney Swans were humbled by the Lions in the AFL decider on Saturday
“I don’t think John Longmire should have to go through this while being asked questions about the game in an incredibly emotional state.
“That would be very difficult to sit through and he seemed to be dealing with it with great calm and composure, but that would be incredibly difficult.”