Essendon will utilise the expertise of some of the country’s most decorated coaches throughout its search for a new Senior Coach.

The Bombers have announced a five-person panel to oversee the interview process. 

In addition to the group announced by CEO Xavier Campbell yesterday, the Club will seek guidance from two of sports most successful and longest serving coaches, Kevin Sheedy and Craig Bellamy. 

Sheedy returned to the club earlier this year after helping establish the GWS Giants. 

The four-time premiership Coach led the Bombers for nearly three decades.

“I think it’s important we have perspective in our thinking,” Campbell said. 

“Sheeds obviously has been a coach for a long period of time. 

“He started coaching 30 years ago and he coached as recently as three or four years ago. 

“I’ve spoken to and will continue to have conversations with Sheeds about what he thinks are the key attributes needed to be a successful coach.” 

Bellamy is a premiership winning NRL Coach who has taken the Melbourne Storm to the finals in 11 of the 12 seasons he has been in charge. 

“We’re really looking forward to learning more about Craig’s coaching philosophies,” Campbell said.

“He’s led the Storm through a period of sustained success and will provide an important sounding board throughout this process.” 

Premiership players Brad Sewell and Chris Heffernan, as well as respected football figure and Grand Final Coach Neale Daniher, will work alongside Campbell and General Manager of People and Culture Lisa Lawry throughout the selection process.