Longmire's incredible speech to players & staff

Watch John Longmire speak to players and staff about his decision to pass the baton on to Dean Cox.

[fosjam]

As a lifelong North Melbourne fan, I just want to congratulate Johnny Longmire on not only the joy that he brought us fans, but mainly for what he's achieved with Sydney. A lot of his former teammates never expected him to become a senior coach, but here we are. What he's done is remarkable. Sad, but proud day.

[CiccioDan]

As a supporter, we value and remember the small things. Especially when you’re a kid. In 1993, I was a 9 year old kid obsessed with Footy. My folks and I were in Lygon Street and I saw John sitting with a couple of North players. I nervously went up to him to say hi and he gave me the time of day, he also made a funny comment about me being a Blues fan and was genuine in asking me some questions about me and my footy. He was an absolute superstar player at the time, and for him to be this nice to a kid was something I never forgot. This is a huge reflection of the person he is.

[matthewlee]

I really appreciate getting to see this. An absolute Swans legend.

[craigb]

From a North fan, John was my favourite playing growing up. I got to meet him in the early 90's when he came to our local Kmart as for a handball competition and I turned up with the number 35 on my back, probably at the age of 6 or 7. He was gracious enough to stay back for a 1-on-1 chat after.

I'm glad he isn't afraid to show emotion, I'm not going to lie, I cried in 1996 when he missed the GF through injury and then cried tears of joy in 1999 seeing him receive his Premiership medal. I was also super proud when he coached the Swans to a flag in 2012. Sad to see you finish up but congratulations on an amazing playing and coaching career John

[crabsrus]

I'm not a Sydney supporter but what a beautiful speech 😢

[Fooster]

What a class act...humility, straight to the point...can see why Swans have been a solid team for so long now 👏

[TanJay]

Amazing speech...I got through only 2-3 minutes before losing it. So much love and respect for this man. ❤❤❤

[mrjabu-qy]

More than just a coach... more than just a coach with one of the best winning records in history (6th best ever). An ambassador of football in NSW and the whole football community. Now we get to realise just how perfect he was in succeeding the great Paul Roos. The Swans are in the best shape they've ever been in, and even though we didn't take the chocolates this year, we just about tick every other box for ultimate success in the years to come. Thanks Horse for your incredible investment into this great club. As a passionate supporter, I'll forever be grateful for everything you contributed to the club throughout your reign. You have set the bar extremely high for what it means to be a great coach... Over to you Coxy! Let's go one better next year.

[StewartMcDonald-ow]

Complete class. Well done John Longmire (from a life long Blues fan).

[petersmith]

Just a real tear jerking speech and an honourable man .. thanks John 👍🏻

[NWPOV]

What a great insight to one man's journey, a great player, brilliant coach and most of all a fantastic team player throughout all levels of his career. To know there is great men like John Longmire out there guiding some of our young Aussie boys into young men with character is one of his greatest achievements that he will be remembered for, way into his future and beyond. Thanks Horse for all your efforts.

[silverandholos]

Amazing work Horse, great person and coach. Sydney FC were lucky to have you

[Zee_____]

A truly wonderful human being and wish him all the best ❤

[grahamvermish]

John, you did a great job as a coach and as an ambassador. You brought me to tears with your speech.

[gerijones]

From an Essendon fan ... well played John ... a great player and coach ... the Swans culture is something to be admired.

[brettturnbull]

Congrats John 🐎
Bloody Great Human, All The Best 👍🏿

[Xaler-bpod]

I know nothing about AFL. That was great to watch
Wish old mate all the best. Top bloke

[firecrakka]

Finals 12 out of 14 years. 5 Grand Finals.
A coach's job is to put their team in a position to win... and you did that.
You helped steer us to another trophy... 1 of the 5 in our 150 history.
You were a great coach... and I thank you for your service to the team, the players and the fans.
Congrats on a great career Horse.
Enjoy your new found spare time.
🙌 🏆 👏

[Sbock]

Horse will go down as a brilliant coach who did so much for the Swans despite his GF record. Legend of the game. Well done John.

[henrymichal]

am a Power fan but love Johnny Longmire's attitude. Your team has been Port's nemesis for years. A very classy speech. Best wishes John