News

Peverill and Bombers to part ways

Friday, 22 August 2008
Craig Rowston for essendonfc.com.au
Page 1 of 1

Essendon Football Club today confirmed it had informed Damien Peverill he would not be offered a new contract beyond the 2008 season.

Peverill has played 142 games for Essendon since making his debut in 2001.

Essendon coach, Matthew Knights, described Peverill as one of the hardest working players he had coached or played against.

"Damien can be proud of everything he has achieved at this club. He has got every ounce out of himself as a player and set a great example for younger players that have come through the club," Knights said.

"These decisions are very difficult but we have set a direction that we want to take as club. It is important that we inject as much youth as possible into the club at the moment, particularly given the draft implications beyond this season and unfortunately that means making some hard calls and Damien was one of those."

Peverill said he understood the reasons behind the club’s decision but at 29, felt he still has something to offer at the highest level.

"I have loved being a part of the Essendon Football Club. Matthew has been up front with me and I appreciate that and understand the reasons. We are parting on good terms," Peverill said.

"I am looking forward to the next two weeks and playing the best football I can. I would like to thank my teammates and the Essendon fans for all the support they have given me during my time at the club.

"I will weigh up my options but I would like to think I can still play AFL football. My recent form has been solid and my body is in good shape. I will take some time out post-season to have a think about what I might do."

PLAYER PROFILE: Damien Peverill

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Very disappointing decision... You are a good player Damien, you will be missed. Essendon should be getting rid of Courtney Johns or Jason Laycock before Damien :

- Raiff Lindsay (posted 22/08/2008 4:00:48 PM)

I am sorry to see Damien Peverill leave us. He has been in the top four players each time he has played, in my opinion, and best on a couple of occasions. I understand the youth policy, and I like the way Knights works; however, I believe letting Peverill go is a mistake. You need some good heads to help the young. Twenty-nine is not Methusalah! Good luck, Pev., for the future, you have been outstanding for the Bombers.

- Joan Hill (posted 22/08/2008 4:01:47 PM)

You're a champ Pev - I'm gutted that you're leaving - You're a true Essendon player mate, and one of the last real footballers - Hard, fearless, relentless and passionate about the red and black - A true Bomber for life and one I'll never forget I don't agree with the club's decision, but I wish you all the best Pev - On and off the field - My fav! ""ONYA PEV!!!""

- Simon Lawlor (posted 22/08/2008 4:03:30 PM)

Pev, thanks for your hard work, committment and fantastic ability over the years. You will be dearly missed. Its a pity the bombers couldn't keep you on for another yar. All the very best for the future.

- Tina Saccone (posted 22/08/2008 4:04:27 PM)

You are a champion Pev. You have been a fantastic player for years now, all bomber fans are gutted to see you go. All the best

- Georgina Holloway (posted 22/08/2008 4:08:35 PM)

PEV GAVE 100%,AND WITH A TEAM OF YOUNG PLAYERS WE NEED HIM AROUND DOING THIS,WHOEVER WAS THE PERSON TO MAKE THIS DECISION YOU SHOULD QUIT NOW AS YOU ARE A JOKE.CHRIS BAISDEN

- CHRIS BAISDEN (posted 22/08/2008 4:10:28 PM)

Congratulations Pev you have been a fantastic player for the bombers since u arrived.unfortaly that's the way it is these days in football.anyways good luck with your future and hopefully u can continue your career and give the same service to another club.u will be missed

- Antonino Papalia (posted 22/08/2008 4:11:23 PM)

I agree that this is the wrong decision. I understand that someone has to go to make room for the youngens, but Pev has shown that he's still a great midfielder for essendon. I reckon if the Bombers sneak into the 8 next year, someone like him could make the difference between causing a few upsets, or bowing out early. Any, if you read this Pev, I remember when you came off the rookie list and ensconced yourself in the team right away. Good luck with it all.

- Andrew Dunsy (posted 22/08/2008 4:12:40 PM)

Sorry to see you go Pev you have been a great and loyal servant to the EFC and there are many in my family who will be sad to see you go. Unfortunately once a club determines a future path there are always going to be casualties. I hope another club picks you up all the best for the future.

- Michael Rance (posted 22/08/2008 4:16:19 PM)

That's a poor decision, 29 is not old! we need some hard bodies in our side, he is no robert harvey but hes not 37 either! I hope his draft pick is half as good as pev.

- David Djurovitch (posted 22/08/2008 4:22:06 PM)

Pev was and i'm sure will continue to be a hard nut and play his football to the best of his ability. Sad to see you go Damien, i have loved ur style of football. Best wishes mate.

- mary agius (posted 22/08/2008 4:23:31 PM)

what a joke

- Maurie Jones (posted 22/08/2008 4:25:47 PM)

what a joke HE HAS BEEN IN OUR BEST FOR 2 MONTHS NOW NO WONDER THE CLUB HAS NO HEART WHEN ARE SUPPORRTERS GOING TO STAND UP TO THIS SORT OF BUSINESS THE CLUB DOES NOT CARE. NO GOOD HAVING KIDS THAT HAS NO BODY WE HAVE 20 INJURIES MOSTLY KIDS WITH SMALL BODIES

- Maurie Jones (posted 22/08/2008 4:27:33 PM)

Well Pev on a great Career at the Essendon Football Club. If there is someone that should stay it would be you. You have shown us proud fans mate what it takes to plays AFL football, you always have your head over the ball in packs and you have always backed yourself in tight contests, something i know my son and i will miss. You have taught a real lesson about football, that if back urself can do anything. Sadly missed a bomber for life

- amanda castro (posted 22/08/2008 4:27:37 PM)

I can't beleive what I am reading, we are getting rid of Pevrill. Hang on let me check the date, oh for a minute I thought it might be April fool's day!!!! Sorry to see you go Pev.

- Tania Tuttleby (posted 22/08/2008 4:30:33 PM)

this is outrageous, we are letting an experienced ball getter go, while we have selected the biggest duds, I must be blind name one young player that gets as many possesions as PEV, IN THE LAST FEW WEEKS WE HAVE GONE BACKWARDS AGAIN

- Christine Bishop (posted 22/08/2008 4:35:41 PM)

it is one of the great ironies that the introduction of 2 new teams - and subsequently the need to find 88 more players - will actually spell the end for otherwise serviceable players. Been a very good, honest footballer - exactly what every club needs.

- Jason Hannigan (posted 22/08/2008 4:38:01 PM)

So sorry to hear you will be leaving the bombers Pev you have been a great team player I have enjoyed watching you play. You always made yourself available to have a talk at our country dinners. I'm sure you will be picked up next year all the best for the future I will watch you with interest next year whoever you play for. Marlene J Block

- Marlene Block (posted 22/08/2008 4:38:07 PM)

Pev, you're a champion. I remember your first 8 games off the rookie list and they were the best first games i've seen anyone play. You showed what kids who dont have the best skills can do if they work their bums off, and hopefully our developing youngens have learnt from your example. I still think you have something to give, so i hope another club recognises that and you get another opportunity, good luck Pev, a true work horse...

- Liam Doidge (posted 22/08/2008 4:45:04 PM)

Terrible decision. Players like Pev are the heart and soul of the footy club and every time the club has let these players go, we go backwards. Hardwick, Caracella, Blumfield, Heffernan to name a recent few. Playing better footy than most at present.

- David Parasol (posted 22/08/2008 4:45:40 PM)

will miss you pev.. very much under rated player , u been great a good solid player and thats what the club needs ... why knights is kicking u out ...is crazy we need experience hard ball getters and thats what you are [talk about never bite the hand that feeds you ]i hope you play on next year ,,, you won't have a problem being picked up ,when we play against you next year i hope u personaly have a great game ...just play your usual game and show the E.F.C. what a mistake they have made... thanx pev for all you have done for us ... best wishes ..........Darren i

- Darren Pigott (posted 22/08/2008 4:45:52 PM)

Pev has been a great player, but unfortunately if he doesn't fit in with the club's direction, not much can be done. he has some drafting value so i don't see why his career would be over. thanks for everything Pev, if all else fails go for GC17, you could play as long as Harvs easily :)

- Rowan Lace (posted 22/08/2008 4:46:40 PM)

Pev's 29 and puts his body on the line every match and does the best for his team. He can do just as good if not better than any of the youngsters and has proved himself so many times unlike some of our young players like dempsey and Pears(not saying that there not at AFL Standard). Whichever Ba@$%# Decided he should go has no soul or spirit and should be fired. He was going to be one of the men to lead the way to the top eight next year.

- Thomas Jackson (posted 22/08/2008 4:47:32 PM)

Very hard decision but a good one as when all our young guys build thenselves up Pev will be well & truely past it, unfortunately Ramma & Johno should go as well as he has been very quiet this year and we won't win on sentiment, if it was up to me I would keep all of them but its not & its a business now not a sport, best wishes & THANX PEV we all luvs ya

- Mark McLachlan (posted 22/08/2008 4:48:19 PM)

What a loss to Bombers Team and Fans, Pev you will be sorely missed. I don't agree with the decision like many the Bombers have made.If it wasn't for players like you in the last few months we ould have been bathed everytime we run on the field! Hope you get snapped up by another club who will apreciate your talents and fortitude.

- Mary Geary (posted 22/08/2008 4:50:49 PM)

That is one of the worst decisions ever made! Pev gives his all for 100% of every game, whereas someone like Laycock can't be bothered even running with his opposite number. Pev has showed on a few occasions throughout his career that when dropped he can fight and work hard to earn his spot in this team. He should be rewarded with at least one more season. Laycock and johns have been given more than enough chances and failed to deliver every time. Knights, terrible decision!

- mena aboud (posted 22/08/2008 4:51:39 PM)

I'm a little surprised to see Pev go, I thought he would have a got atleast next year, you need someone to get in there and get the grunt work done, and Pev and Welsh are good for that. Personally I would have delisted/retired Michael, Laycock, Johns, Johnson, Rama, Lee, Lovett-Murray first. Its all well and good to play youth and running, but you need the Pevs in the side as well. Pev is our Kirk, all the best Pev, hope you get picked up next year

- Matt Burnie (posted 22/08/2008 4:53:22 PM)

I disagree with those saying it was the wrong decision. The club needs to be pragmatic and look to the future. But thanks Pev, you will be fondly remembered by all Bomber fans.

- Andrew Rankin (posted 22/08/2008 4:55:27 PM)

If every player was as willing to give on game day as you Pev the team would be a chance every week. Have a look at yourself Essendon committee. Push out all the experience and throw the young ones out to the wolves. Everything needs a balance. Bad decision Bombers!!!

- Eric Gruetzner (posted 22/08/2008 4:57:59 PM)

bomber fans why to do we have to put up with this? chris baisden

- CHRIS BAISDEN (posted 22/08/2008 5:06:55 PM)

Well done Pev... You have been a classy person until the end. Looking at what has been said already it is obvious that Essendon fans have a great respect for you and what you have achieved. I am sure the decision to not renew your contract has been one that has not been made lightly and your acceptance of this is honourable.

- Matthew McPherson (posted 22/08/2008 5:11:39 PM)

A strange decision considering his recent form. It all good and well going for youth but you need someone on the ground experience to cover for the youth and show them how it is done. Since playing off the 1/2 back line over the last few weeks he's mopped up young players mistakes. just adds a bit of a cool head in pressure situations. One more season would have been perfect

- Geoff Congues (posted 22/08/2008 5:12:19 PM)

When this decision was first published about 8 weeks ago it was wrong then and nothing has changed. Damien was out of the team at the time and, because of injuries, had to be brought back in. I was hoping that his great form in recent matches would have impressed the coach sufficiently that he was still a required man. Obviously not. I am sure that he will continue his career at another Club and the Coach will be seen to have made the wrong decision.

- Phillip Graham (posted 22/08/2008 5:15:49 PM)

CONGRATULATIONS and THANKS for your years of service to the club Pev!! I can understand the reasons behind the decision, looking to the future, but it is a hard decision and unfortunately you are a casualty of where the club is at as a group. No one could have asked for any more hard work, guts or determination than you have put in week after week. You're a true champion and will be well missed! All the best Pev!!

- Mark Atkinson (posted 22/08/2008 5:22:00 PM)

So sorry to hear this news, Pev!! I've always enjoyed watching you play,as you give your all, and have been a very exciting player. If we have all young and inexperienced players, and not many older heads in the team, we will rapidly go backwards in the near future. Good luck, and I'll be very interested to see who will recognise your value and pick you up!!

- Rhonda Carroll (posted 22/08/2008 5:22:14 PM)

Thank you for your contribution over the years. You will be missed in the midfield. Our loss will certainly be someone else's gain.You will be remembered with gratitude & don't forget that you havemany more years of quality football left in you.Good luck & lucky the team that gets you now

- Winston D'Cruz (posted 22/08/2008 5:27:33 PM)

The right decision. Only played so many games cause of injuries. Can't knock his courage or attack on the ball, unfortunately for him he wouldn't get game in front of Winderlich, Myers, Davey, McVeigh, Dempsey, Hocking and Reimers.

- matt erickson (posted 22/08/2008 5:28:48 PM)

Sad 2 c ya go Pev. You've played a big part at Essendon for 8 years. Good Luck for the future

- Reece Twyford (posted 22/08/2008 5:30:47 PM)

theres a lot more that should go first

- Nathan Casey (posted 22/08/2008 5:38:20 PM)

Hey Pev, I'm gonna miss you. I wanted you to hang around for 1 more year but I suppose the club thought it would be better for you to move on. Also, posters are saying that Laycock and Johns etc should go before Pev. Well Johns is going at the end of the year and we lack ruck stocks so Laycock has to stay whether you like it or not. Pev is 30 years old and we have lots of young midfielders coming through the ranks. We done Pev on a fantastic career.

- Sam Roberts (posted 22/08/2008 5:39:41 PM)

I don’t get angry easily, but this is unbelievable, irresponsible and plain st….. So “the plan” is now to chop off quality players at the top of their courier, to make way for certain apprentices (you all know who they are) that may not deliver for years, if ever. And the parting of the ways is all done with “understanding” and compliments all round. Yeah, sure. I thought I’d never say this, but I really hope you will play on, Damien, and when the time comes where your new team plays against this club, then I hope you show them how wrong they were.

- Klaus Erbgut (posted 22/08/2008 5:42:15 PM)

Oh ouch That hurts us really bad. This is a terrible decision by the Bombers- I can't believe we've got rid of one of our best players, week in week out. Far out. This is weird. Someone needs to check out the Essendon Commitee room... And confiscate all of their mind-#### drugs. All the best for the future, Pev.

- Cameron Marshall (posted 22/08/2008 5:57:18 PM)

Thank you Pev for your magnificent career,it has been a pleasure witnessing it !! All the very best for the future !! I hope the player who replaces Pev on the list does not WASTE his opportunities... To the people who will make the decision on his replacement,please do us ALL proud with your selection.... 42 year supporter,30+ of them as a member.

- Noel Shields (posted 22/08/2008 6:02:44 PM)

i hope you play on with another club next year pev as i love watching the way you play footy, hard at it, the way footy should be played.

- Jay Wright (posted 22/08/2008 6:03:10 PM)

Very very disappointing to see that Pev won't be in the red and black next season. With the experience of JJ and Mal already leaving i really thought he would get another year. PEV- you are a champ, thanks for the past 8 years and i really hope the future holds great things for you!

- Rachelle Bransgrove (posted 22/08/2008 6:04:44 PM)

very sad but as bad as it seems mate you should play for another club and make them proud.

- joel Bowls (posted 22/08/2008 6:07:30 PM)

Well done Pev - you have served the Bombers well - your speed and composure has left us with lots of memories - thanks for the great times

- Elizabeth Harris (posted 22/08/2008 6:08:11 PM)

I just hope the committee have had a look at all the above comments & have a long hard look at themselves,in all my fifty plus years following my beloved Bombers this is right up there as one of, if not the worst decisions ever made! How many in the side can get the gutsy hard ball like Pev? This decision MUST be reversed!! Buzz & Graham.

- John Buzaglo (posted 22/08/2008 6:28:03 PM)

Pev,i have seen you play a lot of great games,you always gave 100%.I understand the culb decision and what they want to achieve,i know it maybe not the right decision,but i would like to thank you for your pride,wearing our red & black jumper,and the great service you gave us.Just do us one favor tell,your team mates how great it fills and a privlage to be in the red & black jumper.Cheers Pev after your last game, me and my mates will have a few beers,cheers! Good luck in the future.

- Georgia Sabatino (posted 22/08/2008 6:29:49 PM)

This is NOT a good decision. Football is a business, no doubts. At least 4 or 5 players who have been at club for quite a while should be offered up before Pev. Very BAD decision. I will be considering membership. Thank you Pev!!!

- Michael Wilson (posted 22/08/2008 6:32:58 PM)

Bad decision, i understand we want youth but you need experience as well, and he has got it. Laycock has had his time and hasnt come up with the goods, whereas Pev has. But thanks Pev hope your career will continue.

- Nick Davies (posted 22/08/2008 6:35:02 PM)

I'm gutted to hear that about Pev. Personally i think it is a foolish decision. We will already have more room for youngsters in the team with Mal Michael, Jason Johnson and probably Adam Ramanauskas bowing out at years end and now we get rid of someone who is probably in career best form. I like what Knights is doing but i think this is a mistake. Sorry and Sad to see you go Pev, we wont forget you at Windy Hill and all the best with future endevours. Hate the thought of you playing against us but that's footy unfortunately (please dont go to Freo!).

- Leigh Farrugia (posted 22/08/2008 6:39:51 PM)

I can understand that youth is the way forward, but it doesn't make the disappointment any easier to take. Pev, thanks for giving us your very best, you have played your heart out for the red and black and I know you will in your last 2 matches with the club. Whatever happens, you'll always be a Bomber to me. All the best!!

- Adrian Betts (posted 22/08/2008 6:41:59 PM)

what has happened to this club. lost its soul and sense of loyalty. Pev is not the classic champion but represents what it was to be a bomber.

- Philip Cassar (posted 22/08/2008 6:58:01 PM)

Pev, You've done yourself proud and have played with the heart of a champion, and that's been reflected in the improvement in your own game and the positive influence you've had in our team's performances this year, that is, when you've been selected. Like everyone else, I'm confused as to why we've let you go, but I want to sincerely wish you the best in your future endeavours!

- Robert Jackson (posted 22/08/2008 7:01:14 PM)

I'm sorry to see Pev go. Without knowing the inner working of the club I won't say if it was good or bad but I'd have thought Pev had one more season at least. Pev - Thanks for your commitment and endeavour while you were wearing the Red and Black. I hope things go well for you in the future.

- Jason Wood (posted 22/08/2008 7:07:03 PM)

Congratulations Pev on a wonderful stay with the Bomber's. Trust you can find another couple of years. I've always enjoyed watching you play.

- Roger Brideson (posted 22/08/2008 7:22:53 PM)

dear god, please take pity on the fools who decided pev must go, they know not what they have done. how can a bunch of skinny kids compete with seasoned players. looks like the decision makers are looking for wooden spoons. PEV, you've been fantastic, best of luck champ

- russ hillier (posted 22/08/2008 7:22:56 PM)

Thanks Pev, it's been great to watch a player like yourself who has given his all for the red & black. Unfortunately my opinion won't count, and we won,t see you in red & black next year, I just hope it your departure will not have the same impact as when Damien Hardwicke got similar treatment, & Essendon lost some of it's Soul. Thanks, & all the best for the future. Kevin Grant(supporter for over 60years)

- Kevin Grant (posted 22/08/2008 7:23:22 PM)

I think the outcome of all this is harsh and unfair, i think the football club should look at getting ride of some of the old dead wood hanging around instead of pev. Hope a club picks him up and play evan betting footy than wot he is now and shove it up the clubs butt. poor poor decesion

- Jake Lambourn (posted 22/08/2008 7:55:40 PM)

Very sorry to lose Pev as he has been a great player for the Bombers. I wish you all the very best for the future and I'm sure you won't be hanging up your boots any time soon.

- Myrna Hawkett (posted 22/08/2008 8:07:59 PM)

Really bad decision. Pev should have got a lot more game time this year. He is so reliable and good at shutting down the opposition. It is a sad day in bomber land.

- Warrick Burrows (posted 22/08/2008 8:39:12 PM)

Damian Peverill is a champion of essendon and i think its a disgrace that someone at 29 is let go when in such good form. There is no point going for a youth policy when you persist with a joke like Jason Laycock and scak a great servant of the club!

- Aidan Wilson (posted 22/08/2008 9:10:55 PM)

Very difficult decision as he has been playing well, and has been a great servant and we need some experienced tough campaigners. However he couldnt get a game earlier on in the year and probably only got a game due to all the injuries. Still sad to see you go

- Andrew Leung (posted 22/08/2008 9:30:01 PM)

No Peverill! I'll switch to collingwood... Just kidding I'll die before I do that. Very dissapointing. I really think Damien had a lot to offer for another 2 seasons at least. You will be very missed. =(

- Leanne Butterworth (posted 22/08/2008 9:37:49 PM)

This is a very poor decision. Pev played a very important role in the midfield this year when McVeigh was injured. We all know Pev isn't the most talented player to ever wear the red and black but he is certainly one of the bravest, hardworking and team orientated. Some of our younger players would do well to take a leaf out of the Pev manual. I honestly think another year of pev would be great for our club. We are losing a lot of experience from our list at the moment and we have to be careful not to go to far. All the best Pev I hope you get another crack at the big time. You deserve it and we all know that no matter where you end up you will give it your absolute best. It’s been a pleasure to watch you over the past 8 seasons

- Mark McKernan (posted 22/08/2008 9:37:58 PM)

Absolute Joke. I'm filthy on the club for this....so many passengers at our club and pevs has never been one of those...the games he has played this year he has shown he still has 22 games left in him. get some heart essendon and make the hard call, and the right one...that is to swallow your pride, don't be embarassed about what you've said earlier and put another year on the table. gutless if you don't....FILTHY ON YAS.

- Mitch J (posted 22/08/2008 9:55:10 PM)

I agree with Raiff lindsay, let Cortney Johns & Jason Laycock go not The Pev Bad decision Mr Nights. Macca snr Bribie Island Qld

- Doug McKenzie (posted 22/08/2008 9:56:32 PM)

It Stanton and Dyson get a contract it makes the decision to get rid of JJ and Pev even more disgraceful... Both underated superstars of this great club....

- Nick Martin (posted 22/08/2008 10:18:52 PM)

This is a bad decision and i wish to voice my protest.This guy has given his all to the club and to be treated this way is a disgrace.

- Nicolaas Schrama (posted 22/08/2008 11:04:36 PM)

WHAT THE HELL!?!? Pev is a gun! Come on! Please reconsider this! At least give Pev another year, just 1 more year! Surely he has proved himself in the last few games that he deserves another year... Love you Pev mate! Thanks for everything I will miss your brilliant fearless hard playing.

- Megan Hildebrand (posted 22/08/2008 11:28:52 PM)

Pev, you will be sadly missed but fondly remembered as one of the most talented and exciting players with the Bombers. You are truely loved by all Bomber fans & it's a harsh decision which everyone may not agree with, but I hope you can continue your career with another club because you really deserve to. Thank you Damien, it's been a privilege!!!!

- Helen Constance (posted 22/08/2008 11:29:06 PM)

I cant believe it, Pev is need to help teach the youngsters. At 29 he would have been great for the kids to learn from. NOW GET RID OF LAYCOCK

- Richard Meilak (posted 22/08/2008 11:35:24 PM)

Pev is a 100% goer.We have had a purge but I think that Pev is a great influence and ""Role Model"".Ask the younger players at the the club who they admire most.He is worth keeping in this development phase.

- Tom Jones (posted 23/08/2008 12:15:17 AM)

Thanks Pev for everything you've done for us :) You're an amazing, hard working player who's come so far from your days on the rookie list. You'll be missed! The selection team needs to take a long hard look at themselves. We would have lost by a lot more in the past few weeks if it wasn't for Pev. And if not for injury and he was actually given a chance, he would have made a difference all season. Very disapointed in this decision. Mark Johnson last year, Pev and JJ pushed out this year, who's next years target?

- Stephanie Lowe (posted 23/08/2008 12:54:12 AM)

Really poor decision, I would kept Pav, he's one of the best, instead I would get rid of Jason Laycock, he's hopeless. I would at least give Pav another year or two contract, and If Mal Michael wouldn't retire I would get rid of him as well instantly. I really hope that Adam Ramanaskus will get another contract he really deserves to play another year.

- Felix Lehmann (posted 23/08/2008 2:43:22 AM)

Where would the game be if all 29 years old players were retired by their clubs?. Thanks PEV for your commitment to the Bombers. BAD DECISION.

- Doris Flanagan (posted 23/08/2008 10:02:36 AM)

What a short sighted decision! The team needs a balance of youth and experience. Given another year Pev could have taught the young players a lot, especially about work ethic and endeavour. I hope you put in a blinder and ""stick it up 'em"" next week. Good luck and thanks for the memories Pev. I won't be buying another membership.

- Kaye Thomson (posted 23/08/2008 10:37:36 AM)

While I join the chorus of people who would love Peverill should stay, I think it's a good time for him to move on. Because of the youth policy, he's not going to get regular games at Essendon each week. At 29, he's more likely to be picked up by a club who will give him lots of game time than if he was forced to move at 30 or 31. If he wants to play on for a few more years, now is the time to go. Maybe we're seeing a bit of back-handed compassion from Essendon ...?! We love you Pev. Thanks for your great service to the club and all the best.

- Chris Paragreen (posted 23/08/2008 10:50:14 AM)

Yep, filthy on committee and Knights. Pev is fantastic and hope some team like Carlton which is going to beat us to the top pick Pev up. As Stephanie says, Mark Johno, JJ now Pev ... just ain't Essendon anymore. Better to shove out Knights and the committee I reckon.

- Jerry Jennings (posted 23/08/2008 11:58:00 AM)

What an unselfish, courageous player Pev is and has always been. I think the team lost so many matches this year because they didn't have enough senior leadership on the ground, now they're getting rid of yet another solid, experienced player who has so much to give and to teach the younger players. This is a shame. Best of luck to you, Pev.

- Kimber Smith-Fidler (posted 23/08/2008 12:44:53 PM)

Well done to Pev and JJ for taking their 'enforced' retirement on the chin and still giving 100% to the team - proof of their character, courage and devotion to the red and black. No-one is more Essendon than these guys. Who is going to go in hard under packs and win the contested ball for us with these hard nuts gone? Terrible decision. All the best Pev - always a privilege to watch you play.

- Nick Bonich (posted 23/08/2008 3:57:40 PM)

Stupid decision,get rid of Johns & Laycock.Thanks Pev your a champ.

- Jeff Pritchard (posted 23/08/2008 6:23:43 PM)

Hi Pev, I'm really saddened to hear you will not be with the Bombers next year. You could always be relied on when it came to getting in and under the packs. I hope you realise just how much you'll be missed. I wish there was some way to keep you on. All the best in whatever you do. Cheers Jo.

- Joanne Wallis (posted 23/08/2008 7:06:07 PM)

I'm exceptionally annoyed that the Essendon football club has decided that Pev isn't a wanted player next year. I've been a Pev fan right from the beginning, wearing the number 11 with pride. I wish Pev all the best and will still support him!

- Traci McEwan (posted 23/08/2008 9:41:20 PM)

So sorry to hear the sad news that Pev is leaving us.....it is a bloody joke, we need the likes of players like Peverill, gives 110% every week, good luck for the future Damien & thankyou for the loyal service you have given the Bombers.Its been a pleasure to watch you each week. Judy Taylor Tasmania.

- Judy Taylor (posted 23/08/2008 11:06:01 PM)

pev, you're a champion, i'd give anything to keep you at essendon. maybe once someone at the club gets a look at the comments made on this page, they'll give a second thought as to how beneficial letting you go will be... good luck with the future mate, whichever club you play for next year will be really lucky.

- Matthew Todd (posted 24/08/2008 5:03:43 PM)

I feel sad that Pev has to go. I can't bear the thought of him wearing another club's colours. There must be a place at the BOMBERS for such a good player as he is. Best of luck, Pev.

- Lois Little (posted 24/08/2008 10:08:27 PM)

It's sad but i see where the club is coming from.Good on you Pev.Thanks for your guts & committment.Andrew Lee should be delisted,done nothing at this club.ALWAYS injured!Laycock & Lovett-Murray should be traded.

- Mark Elze (posted 24/08/2008 10:09:51 PM)

You are an Essendon champion Pev, well done with us mate, get yourself re drafted next pre season and show em what you have left. Thanks for the memories. Well done. Chris Borg

- Christopher Borg (posted 25/08/2008 2:00:38 AM)

I havn't always been a fan of pev however his form in the second half of this season has been very good and should have gotten another year. I am impressed with the bombers pursuit of a youth policy and if we need to drop players to make room for new draft picks then why don't we cut players who have had their chances and proved they aren't up to scratch i.e. Laycock and Johns.

- Tristan Groves (posted 25/08/2008 9:33:26 AM)

Although not blessed with natural talents, you've been a wonderful and consistent contributor over the years Damien. Congratulations on a terrific career. Go #45!

- Terry Murphy (posted 25/08/2008 9:47:50 AM)

Pev, a true footballer - gut busting determination to succeed. What else can one say but 'Thanks Pev'. EFC please find him some role...with Bendigo maybe?

- Mark Bloomfield (posted 25/08/2008 10:21:51 AM)

i remember your first game as a rookie pevs, it was a memorable one.. sad to hear you're getting de-listed though =( cheers for your outstanding amazing input to the club for the past 8 years! good luck in the future..!

- Carlo De Las Alas (posted 25/08/2008 11:11:34 AM)

Shattered to read about your delisting.Pev you have been what E.F.C. stands for,surely having a youth policy does not make 29 old.You have so much to pass on to the group and your efforts have been underestimated.Good on you PEV thanks.

- john smith (posted 25/08/2008 11:30:03 AM)

.... says it all. The Pev has been in the best 3 since his return from injury. He is one of the most effective players playing AFL. If it wasn't for him, we would have lost to Melbourne, even allowing for Lloyds BOG. I know the direction the club is taking but not to give The Pev a one year contract - is a disgrace. All I can say is, that there are a number of other players I would execute before The Pev. Damien, I wish you the best for the future and I will comment further, by saying you have been up amongst the best players wearing the Red and Black since you made the team as a rookie. Congratulations!

- Victor Tallis (posted 25/08/2008 2:09:08 PM)

Decisions like this one must be gut-wrenching for everyone directly involved. Damian, it has been a great pleasure to watch you play. Pure dedication and determination. Wishing you every success in the years to come - you deserve it - and hoping that you will look back on your years at Essendon with pride. Thank you.

- Eric Jones (posted 25/08/2008 3:42:29 PM)

I am very sad, a true gentleman and an outstanding footballer. Best of luck for the future. We will miss you. Thanks for everything you brought to 'The Mighty Bombers'. I think we will be just a little less mighty without you.

- Leanne Butterworth (posted 25/08/2008 9:26:46 PM)

I am sad and disgusted. On his past record and current form Pev was at least worth another one year contract. We expect loyalty to the Essendon Football Club from our players yet the EFC throws away a loyal and brave player who is still playing good football,absolutely without valid reason. This disgraceful decision will certainly not inspire loyalty from the current bunch of young players, and perhaps when the time comes for them to consider their futures, they may look back on this example and decide their loyalty to EFC is misplaced and that they should consider themselves above the EFC. Shame on the EFC officials who made this decision. I'll find it hard to continue to support the EFC.

- Graeme Scanlon (posted 27/08/2008 8:44:04 PM)

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