Eagles coach says Worsfold's a legend
West Coast's handling of John Worsfold's sudden exit as coach at the end of last year is a great credit to a club so comparatively young in AFL years, according to the man who has replaced him, Adam Simpson.
In an exclusive interview with The Weekend West, Simpson admitted it was difficult to escape the shadow of the man he described as the 27-year-old club's greatest figurehead.
"I've been in the John Worsfold Room with his big statue," Simpson said.
"There are a few reminders around and there should be, he's a legend."
But the former captain of long-established North Melbourne said he had been impressed by how Worsfold's legacy on the club had remained strong largely because of his seamless departure.
"It's a unique position that the club was in, that such a young club looks after their legend," he said.
"The way it was done and handled was a credit to both parties and I've seen him down at the club a number of times the last three months.
"He left on really good terms with the club and I haven't heard a bad word spoken about him from anyone.
"He's welcome any time he wants and there are no worries whatsoever."
Worsfold has publicly offered to support Simpson in any way the new coach felt was required.
But it was clear his replacement was focused on creating a new path while respecting the club's past.
"I know he's there," Simpson said with a genuine respect.
"(But) I don't worry about it at all, it's a new era. I don't feel that pressure and people understand, too. He was at the club for 17 years, probably longer (actually 24 of the club's 27 seasons in the AFL) and I've been here three months.
"The best-and-fairest is named after John Worsfold, so it's a no-brainer. It speaks for itself."
Meet the real Adam Simpson in today's The West Weekend liftout
