16/09/2026
A huge thank you to Damian Sutherland.
Few people have had an impact on St Mary’s Salesian quite like Damian. His contribution to the club spans generations, with his influence felt across our junior pathway, men’s and women’s programs.
Damian’s journey began before the merger as a Salesian Old Boys player and later a playing coach. In 2011, he played an important role in strengthening the pathway between Ashburton Junior Football Club and SMS. He built strong relationships and helped many young players see St Mary’s Salesian as their football home. That connection remains an important part of the club today.
In 2012, Damian coached the U19s before taking charge of the Reserves from 2013 to 2015. The side played finals in each of those seasons and won the 2014 premiership.
Damian then coached our Women’s team from 2017 to 2019, leading them to back-to-back premierships in 2017 and 2018. He was also named VAFA Women’s Coach of the Year in 2018.
He returned to the club as a Senior Assistant Coach in 2024 before coaching the Reserves in 2025 and 2026. He continued to support and develop our players, helping guide the side to the 2025 Grand Final.
Damian has given an enormous amount to St Mary’s Salesian as a player, coach and club person. His impact will continue to be felt for years to come.
Thank you, Damian, for your loyalty, leadership and commitment to the club.
Once a Salesian, always a Salesian.
