Review helped bail out Bucks

COLLINGWOOD coach Nathan Buckley believes the club’s forensic review into the football department ultimately saved his job.

The Magpies reappointed Buckley on Monday until the end of 2019, despite a lacklustre 9-12-1 record.

Six of the 12 losses were by three goals or less.

“I don’t think without the review that I would have been supported to continue the role,” Buckley said.

“We may not have gathered the information other than wins and losses or expectations and performance, if you just look at those the decision is clear that you’ve got to change.

“Clearly more than that goes on and clearly the review uncovered that in some shape or form as a positive for my retention.”

Buckley yesterday spoke openly about the review, which he said he read in full after being reappointed, and its recommendations.

Magpies football manager Geoff Walsh conducted the review, with information gathered through one-on-one interviews, anonymous surveys and focus groups.

Buckley gave an insight into the questions he was asked. HOW does our leadership stack up? WHAT are the inhibitors to our success? WHY aren’t we winning as many games as we would like? WHAT’S the environment like, what’s the culture?

He said the surveys proved beneficial, with players and staff taking the opportunity to highlight problem areas.

“It was pretty clear what we felt was working and what we felt wasn’t,” Buckley said.

Despite the rollercoaster season, Buckley said he enjoyed the year more than any other as senior coach.

“I know I’m getting better at it,” Buckley said.

“I think I started OK but I know I’m getting better at it — really bullish that we’re going to get the things we can control right.”