Dons coach talks up culture club

You're doing it, not me: Essendon coach James Hird sees the lighter side of pre-season training. Picture: Wayne Ludbey Source: Herald Sun

ESSENDON coach James Hird says the emerging culture that lured Brendon Goddard to Windy Hill will help retain out-of-contract stars Dyson Heppell and Jobe Watson.

The pair ran one-two in the Crichton Medal in October, and Watson is a free agent at the end of next year while Heppell is an up-and-coming midfield star.

Neither is likely to leave, but Essendon is determined to make headway in negotiations so that their contracts do not become distractions next season.

"We have got to be able to find the money to pay players what they deserve, and that's really important, but ... my job and the club's job is to create an environment where players don't want to leave," Hird said.

"Part of that is success and part is winning games so they feel as though they have a chance to play finals.

"That's a really motivating factor but we also have to care for them and look after them and coach them and train them well.

"If we continue to do that, we will continue to hold onto our players.

"We are excited we were able to attract a player like Brendon (Goddard).

"One of the things we were adamant about two years ago was providing an atmosphere where players wanted to stay.

"And if we have that environment we are a long way towards becoming a good footy club again."

The club has invited troubled West Australian teen Dayle Garlett to train this week, but Hird stressed yesterday he was no certainty to be picked up as a pre-season or rookie pick.

Garlett was ignored in the national draft given his off-field behaviour and while Hird is yet to meet him, he said football clubs were good at helping teens turn into responsible men.

"He is a talented player, but it's consistently training day after day, not just talent, that makes AFL footballers. He is a super talent and should have a very bright future."

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