North Melbourne names Jaymie Graham as new coach

North Melbourne has confirmed Jaymie Graham as its new senior coach, succeeding Alastair Clarkson who was sacked earlier this year.

Graham joins the Kangaroos from Fremantle where he has been an assistant coach to Justin Longmuir for five seasons. In a statement, club president Sonja Hood praised Graham's resilience and football vision, saying he has the "exact kind of grit we value at North Melbourne".

"You'll learn more about Jaymie's personal and football journey in the coming days and weeks, but let me say he has the resilience to handle the relentless toils of the football environment, carrying the exact kind of grit we value at North Melbourne," Hood told members.

"As a coach, Jaymie is a process-driven leader with a quiet, grounded presence, sharp attention to detail, and a clear football vision."

Hood also highlighted Graham's proven skill set, including his role in West Coast's 2018 premiership success and his work as the line coach for Fremantle's forward lines.

"He is widely respected across the industry as a developer of talent and a connector of people — someone who builds strong player relationships instantly and earns respect through his actions," Hood said.

Graham will face the media along with Kangaroos CEO Jen Watt at midday AEDT. Fremantle has paid tribute to Graham, wishing him well and thanking him for his "five outstanding seasons" at the club.

"Jaymie has had a significant impact not only on our player group — but the entire football department and broader club," Fremantle executive general manager of football Joe Brierty said.

"It is well documented that Jaymie has had ambitions of becoming a senior coach in his own right one day, and we couldn't be prouder or happier for him to take an opportunity he's worked so hard for."

The Kangaroos finished the 2026 season in 14th spot with nine wins.