+34
Nathan Buckley has confirmed his interest in the North Melbourne senior coaching position, stating he has a fair bit to offer and praising young midfielder George Wardlaw.
Nathan Buckley has confirmed his interest in the North Melbourne senior coach ing position, stating he believes he has a fair bit to offer the club. The former Collingwood coach made the comments on Fox Footy, expressing his love for the role at Geelong but also his desire to return to senior coach ing.
Buckley's Coaching Background and Interest
Buckley, who coached Collingwood for 218 matches and led them to the 2018 Grand Final, said he determined 12 months ago that he would love to coach again. He was previously considered the favourite for the Tasmania Devils inaugural coaching job but lost out to Ken Hinkley. Now, he looms as the lone candidate in the Kangaroos race with senior coaching experience.
He stated that he respects the way North Melbourne has handled their coaching search and that they have kept things tight. When asked if he had been told they were seeking a first-time coach, Buckley said no such indication had been given to him. He added that he still thinks there is another go around as a senior coach and he has a fair bit to offer.
North Melbourne's Season and Coaching Search
North Melbourne finished the 2026 season in 14th place with nine wins, escaping the bottom two for the first time this decade. They flirted with the wildcard race until late in the year. The opportunity to bring their young list back into finals for the first time in over 10 years is seen as appealing. Fremantle assistant Jaymie Graham is viewed as the early leader in the race, having previously run second to Josh Fraser for the Carlton job.
Buckley's interest adds a high-profile name to the mix, bringing senior coaching experience that no other confirmed candidate possesses. His track record at Collingwood, where he won 54.13% of his matches, makes him a notable contender.
Buckley's Admiration for George Wardlaw
Buckley has publicly declared his appreciation for North Melbourne young gun George Wardlaw, calling him a midfield beast. He said he would love to coach a player like him and that everyone on the couch has loved the way he goes about it. Buckley noted that these are the young players you get to work with and feel you could impact positively, which is the opportunity you look for in senior roles.
Wardlaw, a highly touted midfielder, has impressed many with his playing style. Buckley's praise underscores the appeal of North Melbourne's young list and the potential for a coach to make a significant impact. The Kangaroos are expected to continue their search for a new senior coach, with Buckley's candidacy now confirmed.
Nathan Buckley North Melbourne AFL George Wardlaw Senior Coach Collingwood Jaymie Graham
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News: You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Nathan Cleary Suffers Horror Compound Fracture as Panthers Exit Preliminary FinalPanthers star Nathan Cleary requires surgery for a compound fracture and dislocated ankle after a tackle by Phoenix Crossland, compounding existing injuries including a broken right foot, while teammates Dylan Edwards, Isaah Yeo, and Blaize Talagi also suffered significant injuries that could impact the upcoming Rugby League World Cup.
Read more »
Buckley’s ‘red-hot’ shot at Roos role; NBA theme that helped create dynasty — AFL DailyBuckley’s ‘red-hot’ shot at Roos role; NBA theme that helped create dynasty — AFL Daily
Read more »
Phoenix Crossland referred to NRL judiciary for hip-drop tackle that broke Nathan Cleary's ankleNewcastle hooker Phoenix Crossland has been referred straight to the NRL judiciary after being sent off for the hip-drop tackle that broke Penrith star Nathan Cleary's ankle, likely ending Crossland's grand final hopes.
Read more »
Nathan Cleary Faces Six Months Out After Compound Ankle FracturePenrith halfback Nathan Cleary faces up to six months on the sidelines after a double compound fracture of his left ankle, while his father Ivan revealed he also played with a broken right foot.
Read more »