Essendon’s Interim Coach Matthew Egan has challenged the young players on the Club’s list to come back primed and ready to launch into 2016.
Egan paid tribute to the contributions of Joe Daniher, Zach Merrett, Kyle Langford and Jayden Laverde but added the onus is on them and their contemporaries to take the Club forward.
“Who will come back from their break and surprise us,” Egan asked.
“Who will go over and above to impress the new coach when he starts? I guess we will wait and see. The challenge is over to you boys.
“Enjoy your break, but remember - to be great you have to challenge what great looks like.“
Egan reminded the players not to forget why they chose to play the game.
“I spoke to the players after the round 23 win that the best part of footy is the 15 minutes after the game,” Egan said.
“All the work you put in, all the sacrifice you made during the week are rewarded.
“You sing the song, you reflect with each other on the game, you ice next to your teammate knowing you did everything you could to help each other.
“That’s what footy is all about.
“For members and supporters it’s the same. You sacrifice. You go through the highs and lows for those great moments.
"You spend it with your partners, kids or friends.
“I spent the round 23 win with my four year old son in the rooms and its something ill remember forever.
“So remember why you love the game. Its important
“If we play the right way, give everything you have then you can go home satisfied.
“Everything we do from here, players, coaches, staff, supporters and members we need to do it together.”
Egan also thanked James Hird for the guidance he provided throughout the time they shared on the Essendon coahing staff.
“You are a great person, family man and a fantastic coach,” Egan said.
“You need to know you have helped so many players at this club and they will continue to use the wisdom you have taught for the rest of their careers.
“For me personally you gave me more opportunity from the start of the year.
“I have you to thank for where I am today in my coaching development.
“You believed in me and when I took over from you I couldn’t believe how excited you were for me – it shows the person you are, I thank you.”
Egan said unity will help take the Club forward.
“We have showed we can play this game,” Egan said.
“But what we haven’t shown is that we can back it up, game after game, year after year. Like the good clubs do.
“That will be a pre-season focus. Efforts that are repeated consistently with no room for complacency.
“This is our mission.
“Whatever we do from here. Let’s do it together.”
