Essendon interim coach Dean Solomon has officially pulled out of the race to be the next senior coach.
Solomon has been in charge since Brad Scott was sacked at the end of May.
The 46-year-old’s decision to remove himself from the process leaves Fremantle assistant Jaymie Graham, Adelaide coaching director Murray Davis, Sydney assistant Mark McVeigh, and club great James Hird as the four to have made it to the next stage.
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“In recent days, Dean Solomon informed me that he would not seek to be considered for the senior coaching position,” CEO Tim Roberts said in a letter to members.
“This was Solly’s decision and one that he has considered deeply over recent times.
“Anyone who knows Solly knows he has always put the Essendon Football Club before himself, and this decision reflects the same selflessness and integrity that has defined his contribution throughout his time at the club.”
Solomon himself said the decision was made in the best interests of the club.
“I’ve been incredibly grateful for the opportunity to give back to the football club that has given me so much,” he said.
“I’m proud of this playing group. While the results haven’t reflected where we want to be, I’ve seen the growth of these players every day, and I honestly believe our members and supporters have every reason to be excited about what’s ahead. They’re made of the right stuff which gives us great hope for the future.
“Get behind them from day one in 2027 and give them the best Essendon support possible. There’s nothing better than running out in front of the red and black faithful.”
Roberts added: “On behalf of everyone at Essendon, I want to sincerely thank Solly for his leadership, professionalism and unwavering commitment in this role during a challenging period.
“He has served this club with distinction as our head coach and has made a lasting impact on the players and staff.”
Essendon said at the beginning of the process it will bring subject matter experts in for specific steps of the process.
The next stage of interviews will involve specific people connected to the coaching world, external to the club.
The Bombers are conducting a layered process and will dive deeper into each candidate’s skills and philosophies in the next fortnight. Candidates will be asked to present at least once.
It’s understood Davis, currently at the Crows, impressed the panel in his initial 45-minute chat.
All candidates were asked general questions around their readiness to coach, their philosophies on coaching, coaching the club as a whole, their leadership styles, and how they handle pressure.
Graham is also in the mix for the Carlton job, alongside Corey Enright and James Kelly, who chose to prioritise the Blues job ahead of the Bombers vacancy.
The final four candidates
Jaymie Graham (Fremantle assistant)
James Hird (club great and former Essendon coach)
Mark McVeigh (Sydney assistant and former Essendon star)
Murray Davis (Adelaide coaching director and former Brisbane assistant)