Set to coach his final game on the weekend, Essendon coach John Worsfold held his final mid-week press conference on Friday, reaffirming his belief in the direction of the club.
Worsfold, who will hand the reins to Ben Rutten at the conclusion of Round 18’s clash with Melbourne, has coached the Bombers since 2016 and will return to Western Australia, where his family is based.
Club and coach have come under extreme pressure in the second half of 2020 as Essendon only managed to win two of their last 10 games and quickly fell out of finals contention.
Worsfold says the club remains on the right track and will bounce back in 2021.
“I love this game of AFL and I owe it a lot. It has been a massive part of my life for the last 34 years, so far. For those of you who know me, know that I always play and coach with everything I’ve got,” he told reporters.
“I am extremely passionate about anything I do, and I certainly care. I am also an introvert and I understand that this passion doesn’t always come through, especially in press conferences. I know I am much better playing the game than just talking about it.
“So let me be clear to all Essendon people, which includes staff, players, members, coteries and our supporters, I joined our club five years ago because I felt for what it was going through and I thought it could help. Wins and losses were important, but my great love of the game comes from people.
“I saw players hurting, I heard from supporters who were hurting, the club was hurting. I wanted to be part of the club bouncing back, to be part of footy being fun again at the Essendon football club.
“I had so much respect for the club that I joined to be part of that fightback. I respect the Essendon football club family and I can’t thank you enough for all your loyalty and support for our club and for the players through the toughest of times. I heard from you directly about the pain you felt through those tough years. There are better times ahead.
“Thanks to my family that have supported me in my endeavours and commitment to being part of the Bombers bouncing back.
“I believe strongly in Ben Rutten, that is why I agreed to a succession plan. I believe Ben has learned and grown this year and is now better placed to take the club forward. As you all get to know him you will respect him as much as myself and the players do.
“The Essendon playing group have been through two massive transitions in my short time at the football club. I also believe really strongly in these young men I know so well. I respect that there will be those who don’t share my confidence. The future will reveal the reality and I am looking forward to watching that.
“I wish Essendon all the very best. Thanks for the privilege of being part of a unique challenge and best wishes for the future.”
Worsfold has coached 387 AFL games, winning a premiership with West Coast in 2006 and was voted coach of the year by the AFLCA in the flag season and 2011.
He has been linked with a potential senior assistant coach role with Fremantle beyond this season.