Pigeons seek new coach

“At the end of the day, I had always wanted to give back to Yarrawonga. I was in debt to Yarrawonga for what they’d done for me – giving me opportunities playing with Yarrawonga and playing in the 1989 premiership,” the 50-year-old told the Yarrawonga Chronicle.

“I really appreciated Motty (President Andrew Mott), Keya (coach and co-coach Chris Kennedy) and Neil Davis (1989 premiership coach) getting me to, and back to the club. It’s been fantastic.

“ ‘Davo’ was obviously my best ever coach. And co-coaching with Keya was a great experience and opportunity to look at the landscape – I believe that combination was really good.”

Sexton has loved his time at Pigeonland and feels contented with his contribution to putting back into the club. 

But the time has come for him to put more time into his business, on his mixed farming property which has sheep, cattle and rice.

“I feel honored and privileged to get three years at Yarrawonga,” he said. “I believe I have fulfilled that chance giving some time back to the club.” 

Under the former St Kilda player’s coaching, the Pigeons finished third and fifth in the last two seasons and he clinched another third finish yesteryear. 

“Damien’s been a good servant of our club as our top coach for three years now and travel has been tough,” club president Scott Jacques said.

“He’s been particularly good for our kids. We appreciate him advising early of his intentions to give us time to work towards getting a new coach.

“We look forward to Damien’s continued coaching for the rest of this season and wish him all the best for the future.”

Mr Jacques said the committee will start looking for a replacement immediately. “We hope to lock someone in and make the announcement before season’s end,” he said.