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'Heart and soul' Hird congratulates next Bombers coach
McVeigh won the coaching race after Essendon finished 2-21, while Hird said he would move on and consider other roles.
Mark McVeigh has been appointed Essendon's senior coach, winning the race over candidates James Hird, Jaymie Graham, and Murray Davis with a three-year deal.
Essendon president Andrew Welsh confirmed the board's unanimous decision following the club's record-breaking 2-21 season, which concluded with interim coach Dean Solomon's departure.
A 232-game Essendon veteran, McVeigh transitions from his Sydney assistant role after previously serving as GWS caretaker, bringing experience from high-performing clubs.
Former club great James Hird congratulated his friend on the appointment, saying "I put my heart and soul into the effort but obviously fell short."
McVeigh plans to implement quick ball movement and adaptable structures while establishing high standards from day one to lift the Bombers back up the ladder.