Matt Switala steps down from role as A Grade coach of Elizabeth

The Elizabeth Football Club’s A Grade coach has stepped down after helping to turn the Eagles around during a challenging 2024 Adelaide Footy League season. See why he made the decision.

Matt Switala has stepped down from his role as A Grade coach of division six Adelaide Footy League club Elizabeth after helping to turn the Eagles around in season 2024.

Switala, a former premiership captain of Elizabeth, joined the club after its state record 516-0 loss to Fitzroy in round four.

His fresh approach to the game and ability to recruit more players led to an eventual turnaround for the Eagles which culminated in the club’s defeat of Central United in round 15.

Switala said he made the decision to step away from the job due to personal reasons.

Matt Switala has stepped down from his role as Elizabeth coach ahead of season 2025. Picture: Brenton Edwards

“Due to unforeseen circumstances, I cannot continue as Elizabeth Football Club coach,” he said.

“I have enjoyed my involvement this season gaining coaching experience and developing a relationship with a new generation of Eagles.

“I will 100 per cent stay involved with the EFC in some capacity as it continues to field teams into the future and be happy to support the future coach should they need it.”

Switala’s arrival coincided with a slow but steady improvement for the A and B Grade sides with all players buying in to his approach of working as a whole, understanding roles and enjoying the game regardless of the scoreboard.

His and the club’s success in building the squad and helping them taste eventual on-field success has set Elizabeth up for more improvement in 2025.

Switala coaching the Eagles a week after their 516-0 loss to Fitzroy. Picture: Brenton Edwards

Eagles president Adrian Watts said the club was grateful for Switala’s efforts.

“The club would like to thank Matt for coaching the A Grade in the second half of the 2024 season,” Watts said.

“For personal reasons, Matt has decided he cannot continue as coach in 2025.

“Matt stepped in at a time when the club needed it most, reinforcing why he is so highly respected as a footballer and an individual.

“With Matt’s vision and passion, we built a respectable A Grade side and restored our B Grade.

“There were still a number of losses along the way, but notably we were also able to secure a win.

“Few clubs would have survived a 500-point loss, let alone recorded a victory in the same season.

“We thank Matt for his service and know he will continue to be part of the EFC and provide his valued support into the future.”

The club has started its search for a new coach ahead of season 2025.