Longmire’s Lost Audio: AFL Grand Final Secrets Remain Unheard
Former Swans coach John Longmire hasn’t handed over audio from last year’s AFL Grand Final, sparking intrigue. Meanwhile, Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin advocates for significant changes inspired by American sports to inject more excitement into the game.
Longmire’s Decision Explained
John Longmire has revealed why audio recordings from his microphone during the 2024 Grand Final were not returned to the AFL. He admitted he didn’t want to revisit the brutal loss, his fourth Grand Final defeat as coach of the Swans. He also didn’t have the correct technology to play the audio.
The league uses these recordings for a series showcasing coaches on Grand Final day. Longmire stated his assumption was that he owned the intellectual property.
Goodwin Calls for Radical Changes
Simon Goodwin, the Melbourne coach, desires significant changes mirroring top US sports formats. He proposed conferences, a wildcard round, and other innovative ideas to boost excitement.
“I’ve had these discussions for three or four years internally and people at the AFL,”
—Simon Goodwin, Melbourne Coach
Goodwin believes these alterations can generate greater interest and celebrate more success in the AFL. This follows the NFL, which saw a 12% increase in viewership when they implemented a wildcard round (NFL.com).
Ownership & Incentives
Former Eagles coach Adam Simpson mentioned that being mic’d up wasn’t negotiable during the grand finals he coached. He also highlighted that coaches may not always have had ownership or financial reward for their recordings, with Longmire potentially changing this.
Simpson said that hours of audio are probably kept. He added that in 15 or 20 years, something significant might be revealed from these recordings, depending on whether the AFL archives them.
Looking Ahead
The AFL is exploring the possibility of a wildcard round, effectively creating a play-in scenario to determine the final spots in the finals series. These developments signify a potential shift in how the game is played, watched, and remembered.