Longmire inks three-year deal to stay with Swans
SYDNEY coach John Longmire has signed a new deal to remain at the Swans, turning down a lucrative offer to take over the vacant position at North Melbourne.
The Swans on Friday confirmed Longmire had extended his contract for a further three years, tying him to the AFL club until the end of 2023.
It is a major blow for the Kangaroos, who had hoped to lure Longmire – a favourite son – back to Arden St to replace Brad Scott. Longmire’s decision could also benefit North caretaker Rhyce Shaw, who is building a strong case to take over the Kangaroos role permanently.
Sydney’s longest-serving coach, Longmire has overseen 191 games and led the Swans to the premiership in 2012.
“The job of the senior coach is a huge commitment from both sides, so it was important to take the time to ensure that I could continue to give the role the energy it needs,” he said.
“I’m really pleased that the club has the faith in me to continue and that I have the support of my family to continue.”
“They made it clear right from the start that they were keen for me to keep coaching, but we had to work through that and what does it really look like? It’s not just a matter of a tick of the box and everyone moves on.”
The road to Longmire yesterday announcing his deal to stay at the Swans until the end of 2023 might have presented like a drawn out saga, but in reality his manager met with Sydney chief Tom Harley for the first time last Friday and a deal was struck by early this week.