SWFL 2022: Extra significant homecoming for South Bunbury coach Julian Burgess in first game against Dons

South Bunbury coach Julian Burgess will return to VC Mitchell Park on Saturday for the first time in opposing colours, when his Tigers lock horns against Donnybrook. Burgess, who departed the Dons at the end of last season following a historical tenure as coach, has wasted little time in getting South Bunbury flying in 2022. Ordinarily, the mere fact Burgess is returning to his old stomping ground would be the main talking point of Saturday’s clash. However, this occasion has even more significance, given it is a match where two special figures, Chris Sheehan and Dr Ern Manea, will be remembered. “Chris is and always was a great mate of mine,” Burgess said. “He was Donnybrook’s captain when I first got down there, after taking over from Hayden Martindale. I had a close affinity with him in a captain/coach scenario, along with his family. “It is a day where we recognise Chris (Sheehan memorial game) and Dr Manea (both sides compete for the Dr Manea Cup). Although I did not have much to do with Ern, I have had a lot to do with his son Mark, who is still around the club as a timekeeper. “It is a big day for both clubs, for different reasons.” Irrespective of which team walks away with the four premiership points, Burgess is keen to stick around after the game to reminisce about a special chapter in his football life. “Chris is always in the back of my mind,” he said. “We will be going about the game as normal though, as we would any other week. Ideally though, if we get a win, I can reflect on Chris in an extra positive manner, as he meant so much to us all. “One thing my wife Shelley and I have said is that we will try and hang around after, regardless of the score, until stumps and enjoy some refreshments with our lifelong friends at the Donnybrook. “My boys still play there as well, so I still have a close connection to the club.”