""It wasn’t a decision I took lightly but I just felt the time was right to make a move. I have had a fantastic time with Essendon and have made a lot of life-long friends at the club. Naturally it will always be an important part in my life,"" Harvey said.
""I want to thank Kevin Sheedy for the opportunities he has given me both as a player and a coach. He has provided me with great direction and I appreciate the support that he, Peter Jackson and the board have given me in making this move.
""I should also thank the playing group I have worked with over the past eight years, my fellow coaches, the administration staff and all the support staff, particularly our club doctors Bruce Reid and Ian Reynolds who have been great colleagues and friends.
""Heading to Fremantle will provide a significant challenge for me. I look forward to working with Chris Connolly and his coaching staff."" Harvey is expected to head to Perth in a week’s time to take up his new role.
Essendon chief executive Peter Jackson re-iterated that the club was supportive of Harvey’s move and thanked him for everything he has given the club.
""We understand Mark needed to make a move to further his career and we wish him well,"" Jackson said. ""He will always be a part of this club – he is a triple Premiership player and he was ranked as the 18th best player this club has seen in our Champions of Essendon. He has provided terrific support to Kevin Sheedy as an assistant coach.""
""I also think this is a great opportunity for Essendon Football Club to bring in a new assistant coach with some different ideas. The evolution of a coaching panel is important from time to time.""
Jackson said the club would now commence the search for an assistant coach to replace Harvey. He said no time-line had been placed on when that decision would be made.
