Essendon has appointed a new Corporate Sales Manager in former Premiership player Paul Barnard. Barnard played 140 games for the Bombers and was a member of the 2000 Premiership side – a Grand Final in which he kicked four goals. But ‘Barney’ hasn’t been lost to football and he is enjoying his new role.

""I guess I was lucky in that I fell on my feet somewhat after football and spending the past couple of years as General Manager of the Bendigo Bombers was a great experience for me,"" Barnard said. ""But I didn’t have to think too long about this opportunity to return to Essendon""

""I am responsible for looking after what we do in terms of hospitality sales which is a really important part of our business. There is such a variety of options for businesses out there but things are ticking over pretty well. I know I am biased but if you really want to excite clients or reward staff, there is no better place than at a game of AFL football.""

Anyone interested in corporate hospitality for the upcoming season you can give Paul a ring on 92300342 or email him at pbarnard@essendonfc.com.au. And just remember, if you want to get off the phone quickly, try not to mention the 2000 Grand Final – Barney will give you a blow-by-blow description of every touch he had!!