Andy Butler praised James Coppinger after the 40-year-old played his 695th and final game for Rovers.
The No.26 received a guard of honour before kick-off, hit the woodwork during the game and was given a standing ovation from both sides as he was substituted for the final time on the 80th minute.
Butler said: “I thought he was going to get on the scoresheet with his trademark free kick. You see the respect he gets from all sides and it just shows how much of a respected guy he is.
“He deserves a send off with supporters. You look at his career and think it won’t be done again, especially in modern football.
“If you mention Doncaster Rovers, Copps always comes to your mind, so it’s going to be weird to not have him out there playing and training next year.”
Rovers were beaten 4-1 by an already promoted Peterborough United side, with Tyreece John-Jules grabbing a late consolation.
Butler added: “Peterborough are a good side and they deserve to be promoted. We can learn a lot from them.
“If you give Peterborough chances they will take them and Darren has a good side there.
“Consistently we have not been good enough in the second half of the season. I have given everything I possibly can to the club and I will do the same next season, no matter what my role is.”