Mark Thompson admits he was humbled by the support from the club’s members and supporters prior to his appointment as senior coach for the 2014 season.

Bomber said the overwhelming response from the crowd at last week’s Crichton Medal Evening gave him great comfort in his decision to pursue the top job.

“It was a bit overwhelming, it was like they were trying to reach out and say something in some ways,” Thompson said.

 “It was nice to know that people appreciate you but gee it was awkward for me and my personality.

“I’m not a guy who seeks that or handles it that well.”

The premiership captain and coach sent a message to the red and black faithful ahead of next season.

“We want to be a good team that you guys watch, enjoy, love and are really proud of,” he said.

Joining Bomber on the new look coaching team for next season is former Adelaide and Melbourne coach, Neil Craig, who has been appointed to the role Head of Coaching Development and Strategy.

“This year you have two old experience heads in the seat and we are going to try and do things even better again and be a better football club,” Thompson said.

Despite the personnel changes, Bomber declared the game-plan wouldn’t change.

“Everything that James did we are going to do,” Thompson said.

“Everything that the coaching group, football department have done over the past three years we are going to do, we are going to aim to do things better which should be the challenge every year.”  

To view an exclusive interview with Bomber on his appointment as senior coach, click here.