Twist in Roos coaching race as Nathan Buckley reportedly withdraws from process
Nathan Buckley has withdrawn from the race to become the next senior coach of the North Melbourne Kangaroos. This leaves Jaymie Graham as the primary frontrunner for the position.
Why it matters
Coaching changes in professional sports leagues significantly impact team performance and organizational direction.
AFL Twist in Roos coaching race as Nathan Buckley reportedly withdraws from process Longmire officially out of Roos coaching | 01:10 Will Faulkner from Fox Sports @willfaulknerfox October 4th, 2026 2:30 pm Nathan Buckley has reportedly withdrawn from the race to become North Melbourne’s next senior coach, leaving fellow candidate Jaymie Graham in the box seat as Alastair Clarkson’s successor.
The Age’s Sam McClure revealed on Sunday afternoon that the Collingwood legend was due to formally present to the coaching election panel on Saturday, but told the club in the days leading up that he would be removing himself from the process.
The news comes after reports earlier this week that Buckley was essentially toe-to-toe with Fremantle’s assistant coach in Graham, with the duo seen ahead of the pack from others such as Daniel Giansiracusa, David Hale and Kangaroos assistant Xavier Clarke.
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