Leon Davis takes over at Heywood for this season

A former AFL cult hero has returned to the coaching fold stepping up to help his club after an unexpected change. Here’s why they’re excited.

Former Collingwood premiership player Leon Davis is prepared to help his country footy side in its time of need.

Davis has been announced as the coach of Heywood for this season after Sammy Walsh-Bannam, who was meant to guide the team this year, stood down two months out from the start of the South West league season.

Heywood confirmed the news in a statement saying the 225-game AFL player would resume the role he had in 2022, when he coached the Lions for the first time.

Davis is entering his third year at the club and last year had his best season, kicking 61 goals to help the team make the preliminary final.

Leon Davis has been at Heywood for the past two season. Picture: Heywood Football Club.

Heywood president Evan Bott said Davis was selfless when it came to sorting out a situation the club did not plan for.

“Leon put his hand up when we expressed interest internally,” he said.

“We think going with Leon, with our other coaches stepping back, is good for our young group.

“Leon is quite professional with the way he goes about things, we love having him at the club and are quite happy about him being back in the role.”

It’s been a tough couple of months for the club, not only dealing with Walsh-Bannam stepping aside, but dealing with the death of one of their junior players Lauchlon Humphries late last year.

Bott said sorting this latest dilemma out has been vital to getting the club back on track for this season.

“It’s worked out well for the situation,” he said.

“The game style is flowing on from what Leon was teaching when he was at the club, he was mentoring Sammy (last year).

“It’s the best fit for what is happening.”

Bott said Walsh-Bannam was still an important part of the club and could come back later this year to coach the club.

The immediate situation revolves around making sure he is okay and can come back to the club to play when he is ready.

“He’s still at the club, we hope to see him in the green and gold soon,” Bott said.

The goal is simple for the Lions this year, remain in premiership contention but also blood the next generation of players.

“We’ve had a few signings, a few of our younger guys are stepping us as well,” Bott said.

“It will be interesting to see how we go.

“We’re excited the way it’s directing.

“We want to blood the young players and clear out a few of the war horses, me included.”

Heywood starts its season against Cavendish on April 14.

Originally published as Leon Davis takes over at Heywood for this season