Essendon assistant coach Sean Wellman has decided to pursue business and career opportunities away from football.

After three seasons as an assistant coach, Wellman said stepping aside from the Bombers coaching panel was an extremely difficult decision to make.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time coaching at Essendon,” Wellman said.

“The playing list and people who work at the football club are fantastic people and I’ll be supporting the players and the club from the stands next season and beyond.”

“This decision does not have anything to do with the events of this year, and while I wanted to help the club work through the challenges ahead, the timing to pursue further study and business interests was right for me and at a point in my career that I couldn’t ignore.”

“I wish everyone involved at the Club every success for the 2014 season.”

The 2000 Essendon premiership player has also left the door ajar for a return to coaching in the future.

The Club will now begin the process of replacing the role vacated by Sean and will communicate any developments when necessary.