""We have obviously thought long and hard about this position and taken some time to ensure we get the right person in,"" Cato said. ""Gary has a lot to offer on a number of fronts. Having had 10 years experience as a senior coach is very significant and we think the playing group will benefit from that alone.""
Ayres coached Geelong for 116 games between 1995 and 1999. Geelong won 65 of those games and Ayres took them to the Grand Final in his first season at the helm. Ayres then crossed to Adelaide where he was senior coach from 2000 – 2004. He coached the Crows 107 times and the team won 54 of those matches.
""It’s pretty exciting to have the opportunity to work with Essendon probably because of where they are at with their list. I think there are some really good times ahead and I would love to be part of,"" Ayres explained at a press conference this afternoon.
While having 10 years experience in the top job, Ayres isn't concerned about the transition from senior to assistant coach.
""Kevin is obviously the best in the business; he's been in it for more than 25 years. To be able to stay in the game for that long, having known what I know (about) the pressure of being number one, I just think it's unbelievable,"" Ayres explained.
""The respect that I have for him is enormous, I think there are a number of things that I can learn. And I think there is only someone like a Kevin or a Leigh Matthews that I think I would consider working as an assistant coach under.
""I said from the day that I left Adelaide that I still thought that I had something to offer as far as the head coach goes. If I can get back on the bus, albeit with the Essendon footy club and someone like Kevin, I think it should only be positive.""
Ayres will commence with the Club this Friday and will head to Sydney with the team for the exhibition match against Sydney the following week where he will get his first look at Essendon under match conditions.
""Whether we add further to the coaching staff is still being discussed,"" Cato said. ""We have spoken to other people about the possibility of a part-time role but no firm decisions have been reached as to whether we will pursue that position.""
Cick here to watch the replay of today's full press conference on Bomber.tv.
