THE KOROIT Saints have unveiled former Terang Mortlake star Damian O’Connor as the newest addition to their star-laden coaching ranks.
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The 34-year-old will join former Adelaide gun Tim McIntyre as an understudy to newly-appointed mentor Chris McLaren.
O’Connor will arrive at Victoria Park with more than 250 games of Hampden league experience, as well as a premiership in 2005 and five Terang Mortlake best and fairests.
McLaren said he expected O’Connor to “lead from the front” in his role as a mentor to the club’s young talent.
“When he plays, he just leads from the front. With Tim McIntyre coming across last season as well, they’re two assistant coaches with two great footy resumes on and off the field,” he said.
“I know some of our guys that have battled against him in the past, being your Ben Goodalls, your Isaac Templetons, will be looking forward to having him on our side instead of the opposition.”
McLaren said the move would pay dividends for his young family, who would also look to be involved with the club. He said O’Connor would train with the club before making a decision on whether he would suit up to play in red, white and black.
“His wife, Jess, has a strong connection with Koroit and would have played in premierships before. His kids will most likely begin their junior sport out here,” he said.
“We’ve probably enquired every year to see where he stood, but living in Warrnambool I think it was more of a family decision.”