“I’m as passionate about coaching and bringing this club success as I was on the first day I walked through the doors over 15 years ago,” Lyon said.
“Holding the position of senior coach is a privilege I don’t take lightly. It is my responsibility to make those around me not only better but great, so that we as a collective can realise our club’s potential.
“We will leave no stone unturned over the next three years to ensure we take purposeful, powerful steps towards achieving the ultimate success.”
In a statement later released by the club, Bassat said the time was right to offer Lyon an extension.
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“By extending Ross’ contract, we are ensuring stability in leadership and reinforcing our commitment to long-term success. In the past, we have wavered from our plans, but this decision reflects our resolve to stay the course this time,” Bassat said.
“We have made strong progress on our planned build towards contention since Ross rejoined us. We have transformed from one of the oldest lists in the competition to one of the youngest through considered list management, bolstered our development and analytic capabilities, gotten more games into players under 21 than almost any other team, assembled an enviable coaching panel, and streamlined many day-to-day processes.
“We are striving across all areas to not only meet best practice but to be best in class.”
Lyon’s extension comes in the same week Essendon opted to give coach Brad Scott a one-year extension, tying him to the club until the end of 2027, prompting criticism from club greats James Hird and Matthew Lloyd on Footy Classified. Scott has not led the Bombers into the finals in his two years in charge.
