The petition, launched by frustrated supporters, calls for Longmuir’s immediate removal, citing a lack of progress and poor performance in the 2024 AFL season.
Longmuir, who took the helm in 2020, initially instilled optimism within the club. Under his guidance, the Dockers saw improvements, including a return to the finals in 2022 after a lengthy absence. However, the momentum has stalled, and the 2024 season has been particularly disappointing. The Dockers have struggled with consistency, with several key players underperforming and the team languishing in the lower half of the ladder. This has led to growing concerns about Longmuir’s ability to lead the club to sustained success.
Critics of Longmuir argue that his game plan has become predictable, and he has failed to adapt to the evolving nature of the competition. They point to a lack of tactical flexibility and questionable selections as key factors behind the team’s underachievement. Additionally, there is frustration over the development of young talent, with some players not progressing as expected under Longmuir’s stewardship.
The petition also highlights a perceived lack of accountability within the club’s leadership. Fans believe that Longmuir and his coaching staff have not taken enough responsibility for the team’s poor performances and that changes at the top are necessary to restore the club’s competitive edge. The petition has garnered significant attention on social media, with many supporters expressing their agreement with its sentiments.
Despite the criticism, there are still those within the Dockers community who support Longmuir and believe he should be given more time to turn things around. They argue that he has faced several challenges, including injuries to key players and the ongoing transition of the playing group. These supporters feel that sacking the coach mid-season would be a knee-jerk reaction that could further destabilize the club.
The club’s management has yet to publicly comment on the petition, but the growing unrest among the fan base indicates that Longmuir’s position may be under scrutiny as the season progresses. The coming weeks will be crucial for both Longmuir and the Fremantle Dockers as they seek to navigate through this challenging period.