Since his retirement last year, Michael Long has been busy in an off-field role with the Bombers. His role involves working across several departments including marketing and football and also working match-day. “My match-day role is basically communication between player and coaches. I am wired up to Matthew Drain in the coaches box and I give feedback to players coming on and off the ground. I think it is important because sometimes when players come off the ground and they don't know the reason behind it. In the past players haven't known and they get frustrated. Now they know the particular reason - it might be tactical, a change or a rest and I think it is important for the players to know that,” Long said.

Q. Are you enjoying it?
A. Yes it has been good. I think because I have had a bit to do with the players and also playing the game you have a fair idea what is going on.

Q. You are also working in welfare at the club and have a bit of work with Dean Rioli. It has been well publicised he has had a few problems earlier in the year and prior to the suspension it must have been pleasing to see him getting back to his best and getting on with life?
A. Against St.Kilda is probably the match he really came into a bit of form. He has been working hard off the field. I suppose the suspension is one he didn't really need. But I think he is really addressing his problems at the moment and I am supporting him both on the fitness side of things and the welfare. Sometimes you just need to be there for the players, letting them know they have the structure and support around them. Sometimes they just need a friend and need to talk through some of the different issues.

Q. You are taking up a new role with the AFL in November - what is the new position?
A. It was announced at the Sydney Swans game at Stadium Australia. I will be working on the indigenous foundation and it will cover game development, working with sports ready - education and training. The other major task is working with the AFL players association. It seems pretty broad but I will know more when I start. The role will evolve between now and November. I will start two days a week now and then I will go full-time in November. It is going to be very challenging because the role is very broad.

Q. Even though Essendon will always be home to you, November will be the end of your official role at the club. How does that feel?
A. It will be a bit like leaving home for the first time. Football has always been such a big part of my life and so has the club. But the AFL role has given me such a good opportunity and the club have been very supportive. I would still like to play a role with the club - maybe a weekend role with the players. I think I will always be a part of the club is some way. The club is the reason why I have been given this opportunity.