IT’S A GOOD WIN: MELBOURNE COACH CROWNED THE 2021 COACHES COACH
Melbourne Demons coach SIMON GOODWIN has been crowned as the Monjon Allan Jeans Senior Coach of the Year for the first time at the 2021 REIV AFL Coaches Association Awards held online on Tuesday night.
Goodwin was voted by his peers as the AFL Coaches Association Senior Coach of the Year with 258 votes, ahead of fellow Grand Final coach Luke Beveridge (193 votes), and GIANTS Coach Leon Cameron (84 votes), after leading the Demons rise up the ladder in 2021, where they secured the minor premiership and now play in their first Grand Final in 21 years.
With fluctuating results over recent seasons, there was some external speculation around Goodwin’s future leading into 2021, however Goodwin’s calm external nature, strong connection with his players, steadfast belief in his vision and playing group and an empowering leadership style, saw the Club back him in and are now just one win away from their first Premiership in 57 years.
Goodwin has an undoubted talent for coaching, an ability to relate to all on many levels and is always looking for ways to improve himself and those around him to achieve consistent high-performance output.
In a season that again challenged the industry, Goodwin was deemed to be the best performed senior coach, up to and including the preliminary finals, taking into consideration the current season's performance, available resources, player talent and team management.
With coaches all over the country unable to travel, the award which was voted on by more than 120 of his peers and named in honour of coaching legend Allan Jeans was accepted by Goodwin via zoom.
“I’m very humbled to be voted the AFL Coaches Association Coach of the Year by my peers.” Goodwin said.
“Although it’s an individual accolade, ultimately it reflects the efforts of our entire footy club.
“It’s an acknowledgment of the hard work and character of our entire football department and playing list.
“It is the sum of all parts that come together to create a strong football club and I certainly wouldn’t be receiving this award without the support and assistance of everyone who plays a role at the Melbourne Football Club.”
AFL Coaches Association CEO Alistair Nicholson commended Goodwin for his resolve and strength under pressure, and his ability to turn the tide after two years without a Finals appearance.
“What an incredible season Simon has had. He is not one for personal accolades but should be proud to be recognised as the AFL Coaches Association Senior Coach of the Year. This is terrific recognition after the last few seasons. Simon held his head high, worked hard, remained focused and has landed Melbourne in the Grand Final,” Nicholson said.
“This Award has been determined by more than 120 AFL coaches this year and we know it is held in high esteem. Congratulations Goody, what an honour to be recognised by your peers in this way, and well done to the assistant and development coaches and those around and above him at Melbourne.”
2021 MONJON ALLAN JEANS SENIOR COACH OF THE YEAR
1. SIMON GOODWIN – MELBOURNE DEMONS – 258 Votes
2. LUKE BEVERIDGE – WESTERN BULLDOGS
– 193 Votes
3. LEON CAMERON – GWS GIANTS – 84 Votes
