Simon Goodwin Sacked: A Premiership Coach’s Fall from Grace
In a move that has stunned the AFL community and sent shockwaves through Melbourne Football Club’s fanbase, Simon Goodwin has been officially relieved of his duties as senior coach. The decision marks the end of a dramatic chapter in Melbourne’s recent history, one that includes both the glory of a long-awaited premiership and the frustration of underperformance and controversy.
Goodwin's dismissal comes during what many describe as a crisis period for the Demons. Despite having one of the most talented playing lists in the AFL, the team failed to make the finals this season — and the once-celebrated coach found himself on the wrong side of the club’s long-term vision.
The Rise of Simon Goodwin
Simon Goodwin first took charge of the Demons as head coach in 2017, stepping into the hot seat with high expectations. As a former Adelaide Crows champion and respected assistant coach, Goodwin brought with him experience, composure, and a hunger for success.
His leadership culminated in the 2021 premiership – a moment that etched his name into Melbourne’s history books. That win wasn't just a flag; it was a release from decades of frustration for the club and its fans. After 57 years without premiership success, Melbourne had finally broken the curse, and Goodwin was hailed as the architect of that triumph.
For a while, it seemed like Melbourne was set to become a modern AFL dynasty. They had star players, a united culture, and a coach who seemed to push all the right buttons.
The Slide Begins
However, the glow of that 2021 flag began to fade sooner than expected. In 2022 and 2023, Melbourne exited the finals in straight sets both years. While they remained competitive during the home-and-away seasons, their performances in big matches were underwhelming. Critics began to question whether the team had lost its edge — and whether the game plan that brought them success had become predictable.
By the start of the 2025 season, pressure was mounting. A disastrous 0–5 start raised eyebrows, and although Melbourne managed to scrape together a few wins mid-season, it was not enough to revive their campaign. They finished well outside finals contention, far below expectations for a list loaded with stars like Christian Petracca, Clayton Oliver, and Max Gawn.
The club’s executive board, along with the football department, decided that change was no longer a matter of “if,” but “when.”
Leadership Turmoil and Off-Field Woes
It wasn’t just on-field performance that brought Goodwin under scrutiny. His tenure was repeatedly marred by off-field issues that cast a shadow over his coaching achievements.
One of the most controversial incidents this year came when Goodwin, in a post-match press conference, disclosed personal details about captain Max Gawn’s family health situation. While Goodwin likely intended to humanize the team’s struggles, the move was criticized as inappropriate. Gawn later had to publicly address the matter himself, expressing support for his coach but hinting that the timing of the disclosure had been less than ideal.
There were also serious allegations concerning drug testing protocols within the AFL that resurfaced in 2024. Although Goodwin denied having knowledge of any wrongdoing, the speculation was enough to create a media storm. These ongoing distractions added to the narrative that the Demons had lost their grip on professionalism.
And then came the Joel Smith incident — a player suspended after testing positive for cocaine. This added further embarrassment to a club already fighting internal and external battles.
The Club Makes Its Call
On August 5, 2025, the Melbourne Football Club made its decision official: Simon Goodwin had been sacked.
In a statement, the club acknowledged his contribution — especially the 2021 premiership — but emphasized the need for a new direction. The decision, while painful, was framed as a necessary step to return to premiership contention.
Assistant coach Troy Chaplin has been appointed as the interim coach for the remainder of the season. While no permanent replacement has been named, reports suggest that the club is considering a long list of candidates, from established names to fresh thinkers.
The Search for a New Era
The sacking of a premiership coach is never taken lightly, and Melbourne’s board will now face intense pressure to get the next appointment right. Several names are already floating around as potential successors. Some sources hint at interest from coaches like John Longmire, while others suggest a return for past players who have made names for themselves in coaching or development roles.
One high-profile name, James Hird, has reportedly ruled himself out. Nathan Buckley’s name has also been discussed, though it's unclear whether he would be interested in a return to senior coaching.
More broadly, Melbourne is undergoing significant transformation off the field as well. A new CEO, Paul Guerra, is expected to take charge soon, which could further influence the club's culture and direction.
Goodwin's Legacy: Mixed but Monumental
While the circumstances of his departure are far from ideal, Simon Goodwin’s legacy at Melbourne cannot be denied. He delivered a premiership that generations of fans had dreamed of. He helped turn around a club that was once considered a laughingstock in the AFL world, instilling a sense of belief, resilience, and hunger.
But like many before him, his reign ended not in celebration, but in disappointment. In the brutally competitive world of AFL, past glories are no shield against present failures.
Goodwin leaves with a reported $1 million payout, but also with the knowledge that he gave everything to the red and blue. Whether he chooses to coach again or take a break from football altogether remains to be seen.
What This Means for the AFL Landscape
Goodwin’s dismissal is a reminder that no coach is safe, no matter how glittering their resume. It also reinforces the ruthlessness of AFL clubs when expectations aren’t met.
Melbourne’s next move could shape the balance of power in the league. With a talented list and passionate fan base, the Demons still have the pieces to contend — but it will require strong leadership, smart recruiting, and perhaps most importantly, a fresh voice in the coaching box.
Final Thoughts
Simon Goodwin’s journey with the Melbourne Football Club was filled with highs and lows, triumphs and turmoil. His fall from grace is not just a sporting story, but a human one — a tale of how success can fade, how pressure can mount, and how quickly the tide can turn in professional sport.
As the AFL world watches what comes next for both Goodwin and the Demons, one thing is certain: the drama, intensity, and passion that define Australian rules football show no sign of slowing down.
