Melbourne Demons President Kate Roffey has backed the club’s 2021 Premiership winning Coach Simon Goodwin following accusations of bullying and improper behaviour.
The allegations aired after contents from a club review in 2020 were leaked.
A report published by News Corp also revealed the 45-year-old’s conduct was troubling to the point that it made former President Glen Bartlett “deeply concerned” and that club officials considered removing Goodwin as senior coach.
It is also believed that AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan was made aware of the allegations. However, the club’s President Roffey gave Goodwin a public vote of confidence today.
"I want to make this very clear, I look forward to Simon continuing to evolve as a coach and leader at the Melbourne Football Club for many more years to come.”
"As part of the review Gary (Pert) spoke to over 40 people both internal and external to the club including players, coaches, and staff.
"As previously communicated to Melbourne supporters, the review reaffirmed Simon Goodwin as the right man to lead our club, and ultimately to drive us to premiership success.”
Roffey went on to say that goodwin had seen the recommendations of the 2020 review
"As expected from any review, the final recommendations outlined areas for improvement for several key staff within the football program,"
"That feedback was given and welcomed by Simon and others as a way of improving our young leaders who are driving the cultural change.
"During these feedback discussions, Simon totally rejected any accusations of bullying behaviour and as the club president, I totally support Simon rejecting those accusations.”
Roffey's support for Goodwin continuing as senior coach was strong and unequivocal.
"Simon is an inclusive leader who is loved by the players, coaches and staff and goes out of his way to build genuine relationships throughout the football department and broader club."
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