The Essendon Football Club has announced the departure of its Head of High Performance, Sean Murphy, as his contract nears its expiration at the end of the year. After discussions, both Murphy and the club reached a mutual decision that he would not continue in his role beyond this season.
Murphy, who joined the Bombers in 2020, has been at the helm of the High Performance team for six seasons. Under his leadership, the team navigated several challenging seasons, including the current one in 2025. Essendon General Manager – AFL, Daniel McPherson, expressed gratitude for Murphy’s dedication and service during his tenure.
“We want to thank Sean for his commitment to this role over the past six seasons at the Essendon Football Club,” McPherson said. “These jobs are all-encompassing and on behalf of the Essendon Football Club, I want to thank Sean for the professionalism and integrity that he has carried himself with, particularly throughout what has been a really challenging season in 2025.”
Impact of Murphy’s Departure
The decision to part ways with Murphy is seen as a strategic move by the club to revitalize its High Performance and Medical team. McPherson highlighted the importance of this department to the club’s overall success and hinted at a fresh approach as they prepare for the 2026 AFL campaign.
“Our High Performance and Medical team is critical to the success of our football program, and we’re committed to undertaking all necessary work required to help us improve in this area,” McPherson added. “This decision enables us to take a fresh approach and reshape the team as we prepare for a crucial off-season ahead of the 2026 AFL campaign.”
Reflections and Future Plans
Sean Murphy reflected on his time with the club, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to lead the High Performance program. He acknowledged the dedication of his colleagues and the support from the playing group and broader club community.
“I’d like to thank the Essendon Football Club for the opportunity to lead the High Performance program over the past six seasons,” Murphy said. “It’s been a privilege to work alongside such dedicated and professional staff, and I want to acknowledge their commitment throughout my time at the Club. I am proud of the support shown within our High Performance team to each other and the playing group in what has been a challenging season – it is a testament to the character of this team.”
Murphy also expressed appreciation for the friendships and support he received during his tenure and looked forward to future opportunities.
“I also want to acknowledge the playing group, the coaches, the support staff, and the broader Club for their support and friendships made over the journey and I wish the Club all the best for the future. Lastly, I would like to thank my family for the ongoing love and support in what is an all-encompassing role, I look forward to what lies ahead.”
Next Steps for Essendon
As the club prepares for the 2026 season, a search is underway to identify a new Head of High Performance and Medical. The club aims to have a new leader in place as soon as possible to ensure a smooth transition and continued focus on enhancing player performance and health.
This development follows a trend in the AFL where clubs are increasingly focusing on high-performance strategies to gain competitive advantages. As Essendon looks to the future, the club’s commitment to innovation and excellence in player performance remains a top priority.
