SYDNEY Swans coach John Longmire has launched a scathing attack on the "keyboard warriors" who abused club legend Adam Goodes this season. 

In his coaches' address at the Swans' best and fairest count in Sydney on Friday night, Longmire labeled the people who hurled obscenities or taunts towards the now retired Goodes as "cowards" who tried to tarnish the legacy of the champion.

Goodes retired following the Swans' disappointing loss to North Melbourne in their semi-final, after a club record 372 games.

Opposition supporters booed the dual Brownlow medallist throughout 2015, despite pleas from Goodes, the Swans and his peers to stop the treatment. 

Longmire went on the front foot from the beginning of his time on the podium on Friday night in defence of his dual Brownlow medallist.

"To all those who shamefully kick players while they are down or vulnerable, before you act next time, please ask yourself, 'If this was my son, or my brother, or my partner that this abuse was being directed too - would it change the way I act?" Longmire said.

The coach also expressed his support for absent forward Lance Franklin, who missed the count as he continues his treatment for an ongoing mental illness.

"While Lance Franklin can't be with us tonight, our club and everyone who is part of this red and white family continue to support him," Longmire said. 

"He will be back better for facing and overcoming those challenges."