Essendon Football Club president Andrew Welsh has issued a firm warning to Hawthorn ahead of the upcoming trade deadline, cautioning the club against undervaluing negotiations for star player Zach Merrett. Welsh emphasized that Essendon is prepared to hold Merrett, a seven-time best-and-fairest winner, to his current contract if Hawthorn does not present a substantial offer soon.
“Hawthorn wouldn’t want to fumble or try to get too cute with us again in their approach to the negotiations,” Welsh said, referring to the failed tactics used last year. He described Merrett as Essendon’s best and a contracted player, underlining the club’s willingness to maintain a strong negotiating position. Welsh also remarked that as a veteran dealmaker, he understands the need for mutually beneficial agreements and suggested that Hawthorn had underestimated Essendon’s direction and strategy.
The Hawks’ initial proposal, which included draft picks 15, 25, and a future third-round pick for Merrett, was rejected late last week. Welsh indicated that a similar firm stance would be applied in Geelong’s pursuit of Essendon defender Jordan Ridley, who has also expressed a desire to leave the club.
Since taking on the presidency a year ago, Welsh noted significant changes at Essendon that have reinvigorated supporter confidence. The appointments of senior coach Mark McVeigh and new football boss John Longmire have contributed to a sense of optimism regarding the club’s future. Welsh credited these leadership additions with creating a renewed energy around the team, despite acknowledging that recent results have been disappointing from a wins-loss perspective.
Welsh detailed that discussions to recruit Longmire began at McVeigh’s suggestion several weeks prior. The two, along with other club officials, have engaged in detailed strategic planning, with Longmire quickly integrating into the club’s vision. Welsh described a late-night meeting that highlighted the leadership’s commitment to rebuilding with a focus on the club’s young talent and long-term success.
The club has also undergone governance restructuring with the formation of a revamped football governance committee, including Longmire, McVeigh, chief executive Tim Roberts, football director Ted Richards, vice-president Anthony Di Pietro, and Welsh himself. This group aims to provide strategic oversight, address pressure points, and inform board decisions on investments in facilities and programs.
Welsh also reflected on challenging decisions during the year, including the board’s choice to replace former coach Brad Scott with McVeigh, a move that surprised many given the potential appointment of Essendon legend James Hird. Welsh acknowledged the emotional and sometimes irrational responses from supporters but defended the thorough, data-driven coaching search process. While the club considered Hird for senior roles following McVeigh’s appointment, no suitable position materialized, though Welsh emphasized ongoing respect between parties.
Finally, Welsh remarked on his increased awareness of the media landscape surrounding football, noting the prevalence of inaccurate stories and false reports from unnamed sources. He described this as a key learning experience during his first year leading the club.