WHEN Xavier Moloney decided he wanted to step away from coaching to concentrate on his key role in Swan Hill’s midfield, the Swans had a ready-made solution like none other.
Whether many clubs can boast two past premiership coaches among their playing group is doubtful, whether they possess the on-field presence of Callan Beasy and Hugh Foott is even less likely.
The 2008 and ’11 Swans premiership coaches will take over the reins as co-coaches next season, with both looking to return to their best after a season blighted by injury.
The Swans returned to the finals this season for the first time since the 2011 premiership, finishing third and booking a spot in the 2014 qualifying final.
And while a 28-point win over Tooleybuc Manangatang seemed to point to the potential for success in weeks to come, the Swans were served a reality check on second semi-final day when they went down to Kerang by 77 points.
Another game against the Saints saw Swan Hill bundled out of the final by 52 points on preliminary final day.
But while Moloney’s side won its first 10 games, injuries and a drop in form saw the Swans slump from first to third with four straight losses.
Foott said the long list of sore stars was a factor in the Swans limping into September.
“I think we were a little stiff last year. Most of it was bad luck, there weren’t any management issues,” he said.
A reversal in fortune in that department will play a role in ensuring a more fearsome Swan Hill outfit come finals next season, Foott said.
Further development of young stars will also be important, he added.
“If we can have a bit of luck next year and develop our young talent, which is what we want to do for our future anyway, then we are hopeful of being there or thereabouts,” he said.
Foott paid tribute to Moloney’s coaching and said he would play a vital role in the Swans’ 2015 campaign.
“He did really well. I think the last half of the season was the best he’s ever coached,” he said.
“But it will be good for him next season to play his own game again.”
