Sydney assistant coach Don Pyke won’t pursue the Essendon coaching job.
Pyke, who coached Adelaide to the 2017 Grand Final during his stint at West Lakes from 2016 to 2019, says he is happy to remain in the Harbour City for the time being.
While the 53-year-old admitted he did have a “chat” with Essendon, he says he’s not going to pursue the vacant role at this stage.
“I’m really enjoying what I’m doing here (in Sydney),” Pyke told ABC Sport.
“You come across to a club you haven’t been associated with and I’ve been fortunate to join at an exciting time.
“I had a chat to the Bombers, but at this stage, I’m not pursuing that."
.@sydneyswans assistant Don Pyke says his team is embracing the preliminary final pressure.
— ABC SPORT (@abcsport) September 17, 2022
"The players are aware of the stage, they’re aware of what we’re playing for… you want to welcome that."
Live blog: https://t.co/mx7klndJS8
Listen live on ABC Radio or the AFL app. pic.twitter.com/SB7sXLA9T9
Pyke is one of a handful of experienced coaches that have opted not to take part in the Bombers’ coaching search, with Alastair Clarkson, Ross Lyon and Leon Cameron also deciding not to apply for the job at Tullamarine.
With Pyke another former head coach out of the picture, the Bombers may look towards an assistant with no previous senior experience with the likes of Adem Yze, Daniel Giansiracusa and Brendon Lade potential options.
The Bombers have previously stated that they were hoping to hire their next head coach before Grand Final day which is now just six days away.