There is absolutely no doubt that coaching 715 games changes a man.

When I was starting out in this business, I was often easy to anger and short with people I didn’t respect.

Over the years, I’ve become more patient, like an ox or similar bovine creature.

Now, I’m more willing to listen to others and respect their views.

Except for Eddie. You never forgive a man who forces you to coach Carlton.

There is arguably no more noble profession than teaching young men to kick a football to each other.

Maybe being a surgeon is close.

It’s not easy either.

For every Chris Judd, there’s that kid I sacked last year for taking pictures on his portable telephone.

If you ask me, technology benefits no one.

There’s also dealing with the media on a regular basis, which is like having to go to detention every day after school.

It’s boring, you have better things you could be doing and you’re surrounded by a bunch of people with low IQs and behavioural issues.

Except unlike detention they get to ask you stupid questions until you just wish the ground would open up and swallow Mark Stevens.

Looking back at my career, it’s not the countless players I’ve helped or the millions of people I’ve inspired that I think about.

It’s the fact a lesser man would have been broken by this, instead of becoming the greatest coach of all time.

It’s very humbling and you’re welcome.

Regards

Mick Malthouse