Essendon assistant coach Mark Harvey believes club vice captain Sean Wellman has a coaching career ahead of him once his football days are over. Wellman lines up for his 150th game with the Bombers against Fremantle this Sunday, having fully recovered from surgery on a badly dislocated finger. Harvey believes Wellman has been an invaluable acquisition for the club since being traded by Adelaide.

“He is an important part of the leadership group around the club and I really believe he would make an excellent coach when his career is finished,” Harvey said. “In many games we have used him as the central player in our game plan and we have been able to do that because he has such a thorough knowledge of the game and his teammates around him.”

Wellman spent a lot of time under the guidance of Harvey when he was defensive coach. Harvey couldn’t resist the chance to give dish out a back-handed compliment. “He has been a player that has always put his body on the line and that is unusual for a South Australian,” Harvey laughed.

“In all seriousness, he has been a player that has really embraced the culture of Essendon Football Club and never once has he expressed any desire to go home. As far as trades go, this club is more than happy with what Sean has given this club. He has been sensational and a twice an All Australian.”

Former teammate Michael Long also endorsed Wellman's leadership qualities in Champions of Essendon. He is a real leader on the football field - honest, reliable and consistent - rarely do you see him get beaten,"" Long said.

""I'd have him in my side any day. His enthusiasm is infectious and he always acknowledges those around him who are doing their job well.""