Adam Simpson and John Longmire address North Melbourne coaching vacancy
AFL • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 2, 2026, 9:36 AM
Last updated Sep 2, 2026

North Melbourne is searching for a new head coach following the departure of Alastair Clarkson on Wednesday. Premiership coaches Adam Simpson and John Longmire, both former players at the club, have been linked to the vacancy but refrained from committing to any interest. Both men expressed a continued emotional attachment to North Melbourne but emphasized a desire to respect Alastair Clarkson immediately following the announcement. Club president Sonja Hood stated that the team has no preconceived ideas regarding the profile of the next coach. While some speculation points toward the two experienced premiership winners, early commentary suggests the club may prioritize an untried candidate for the role. This marks the fourth head coaching vacancy within the AFL this year.
- •North Melbourne terminated the contract of Alastair Clarkson on Wednesday.
- •Adam Simpson and John Longmire both played for North Melbourne during their careers.
- •The club is currently evaluating whether to hire an experienced coach or an untried candidate.
- •This is the fourth AFL head coaching vacancy to open during this calendar year.
- 9:36 AMAFL — Simpson and Longmire speak about Roos vacancy after Clarkson's exit
"The two premiership coaches side-stepped questions about the North Melbourne role on Wednesday
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