Former Melbourne skipper and current co-host Channel 9’s ‘The Footy Show’, Garry Lyon, has been approached by the AFL to follow a coaching pathway similar to that undertaken by Michael Voss and Nathan Buckley.
Last night Lyon confirmed that he was going to have a meeting with the AFL regarding a coaching role with the AFL’s AIS (Australian Institute of Sport) Squad. He did however stress the fact that he was absolutely no certainty to follow the footsteps of Voss and Buckley and coach at a senior club level. He said he had to look at his time commitments when making a decision.
It is rumoured that Lyon will be taking over Nathan Buckley’s coaching role of the under-16 team at the AIS. When asked about this prospect by The Age Lyon responded with “’I'm not ruling it out, but I’m not ruling it in”. He said if he gets the opportunity to work with the best kids in the country it would be very exciting.
Gary Lyon also stated that the AFL’s under-16 system is great and he loves the under-18s. He said he loves the draft and loves working with kids. He stated that they are probably the best audience in the world and they have their whole lives ahead of them.
Lyon has not worked at club level since 2000, when he was a part time forward coach for the Demons and when he coached the Australian International Rules team for 4 years.
In regards to Lyons commitments at present; he co-hosts’ Channel 9’s “The Footy Show” with James Brayshaw. Lyon confirmed he is close to signing a new two year with the nine network. He is a regular writer for The Age and does commentary with Triple M (which he is out of contract with at this year’s end).
If Gary Lyon re-signs with Channel 9 for two years, it means the rumours of him possibly taking over from current Melbourne Coach Dean Bailey (whose contract ends at the end of 2010) is highly unlikely.
Gary Lyon has a strong association with the Melbourne Football Club. He played 226 games from 1986 through to 1999. He captained the club for 7 years (between 1991-1997), kicked 426 goals and was dual best and fairest and All Australian player.
Tags: Dean Bailey, Garry Lyon, James Brayshaw, Michael Voss, Nathan Buckley
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