Paraphrasing what he's now saying - more to come I hope - sorry for errors, but typing live.
Announcement that the board has made a decision that Sheeds’ contract will not be renewed. He will coach to the end of the season.
Long process that the board’s been involved with – a very considered process. Not chosen to share with the media, but it’s a decision that has not been easy. Been a challenging decision.
Talking a person who’s had the most profound impact on their club – decisions not made lightly or easily – a difficult process.
Kevin has been under a fair amount of pressure – normally a media circus. Congratulated Kevin on how he’s conducted himself.
Why the decision has been made – won’t comment on that. What he will say is the board took the decision with 3 to 5 years in mind. On paper, better performed than last year. Bad luck last year and good luck this year.
If we’re looking at where we’re at, led very well by players like Hird, Fletcher, Mal Michael. Lloyd came back.
The point about that is the youngest of those players is 29 years old. The board sees the future of this playing list over the next 3 to 5 years, not a 1 to 2 year decision.
Decision was taken with a vast majority of the board and board is united behind the decision.
Why now and not end of year. Two reasons now – one, to be fair to Kevin. He’s a legend, he will be recognised as a legend of the club and the AFL in due course. The players want to recognise his contribution to them and the club and that they would like the opportunity over last six weeks to celebrate his career.
Games coming up – Carlton, Richmond and WC. Looking forward to seeing 45,000 wC fans in Subiaco waving the yellow and blue scarves. Wish it had happened against Pies last week because of what Kevin has created with the rivalry.
Main reason and they don’t want him dodging press conferences and question s and get it over and done with.
2nd reason – 3 other vacancies. Good coaches don’t grow on trees and they have to be in the game to find one. Remiss of the club not to start that process now.
Difficult and challenging decision because of Kevin.
Sheeds says they’ve been a great client to him. And you don’t get a 27 year client that often. He’s been very lucky to have had this opportunity.
Been talking about it since late January, discussing whether Hird and him should go out at the same time.
Next discussion about late May and were in the middle of a few wins and had to be careful how they did it, so it wouldn’t affect the team.
Essendon guy – whether it’s a correct decision or not, wait till 3 or 5 years time. They don’t know what will happen. Judge them in 3 to 5 years time.
Kevin doesn’t think it’s a big deal – it’s sport. You’ve got to realise that in that moment of time that you’re very fortunate to coach for such a long time at one place.
If another opportunity comes up he’ll look at it. If it’s right he’ll consider it – if not, he’ll move on.
