AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou today said he wished to pay particular tribute to Kevin Sheedy, whose record-breaking term as Essendon coach will conclude at the end of the 2007 season.
"Kevin has served AFL football longer than any person in the history of the game, with a record of success that places him among the pantheon of our game's highest achievers," Mr Demetriou said.
"On behalf of the AFL, I would like to congratulate Kevin on his tenure at Essendon and, most importantly, to record the game's appreciation for his efforts to grow our sport, beyond the simple numbers of his achievements on the field as a player and coach.
Kevin has been our foremost promoter and salesman over nearly three decades, working tirelessly across the breadth of Australia to develop our game.
"He has had a pivotal role in so many areas, such as the development of Anzac Day as a key event on the football calendar, the promotion of Indigenous players as stars of our game, the continuous search for youthful talent and his support of the national competition.
"His work has been invaluable and football owes him a great debt of gratitude.
"At this time, I would also like to recognise the work of Neale Daniher, Chris Connolly and Denis Pagan, who have each finished up in their club roles through the course of this season.
"Neale, Chris and Denis, like Kevin, have always had the health and future of our game close at heart, and their efforts are greatly appreciated."
