Queenscliff coach Rory Nicol will step down at the end of the season

The senior coach of a mid-table BFL club has revealed when he knew it was time to step away from the top job despite being a chance of finals.

A young and developing Queenscliff Football Club needs a “fresh voice”, departing coach Rory Nicol has revealed.

The senior mentor will step away from the Coutas after this season, believing the senior squad needs a coach for the next three years to guide its overall development.

“I’ve enjoyed my time coaching at Queenscliff and when thinking ahead, I just thought this group needs a senior coach for a number of years,” Nicol said in a statement.

“With two seasons done I think the list needs a three-year commitment so I think in the players best interest it’s time for a fresh voice to take this young list to another level.

Queenscliff coach Rory Nicol instructs Matthew Tanner. Picture: Mark Wilson

“I’m pleased with the development of many of the young players on the list, and there is still a lot of work for this group to get to the top of the ladder.

“We still have four weeks and a slim finals spot alive so I am really looking forward to enjoying the last part of the season.”

Nicol told this publication he had conversations earlier in the season with new president Ali Waight it was time to start thinking of 2024 and beyond in terms of coaching, essentially somebody who could commit for three years.

While stopping short of saying exactly when he knew it was time to step down, Nicol said he had “probably known for a fair while” but was “proud” of what he had achieved.

“I just knew, you know as a coach,” he said.

“But I didn’t want it to be a distraction.”

“I just think it’s the right things for the players, I know what’s best for them.

“I’m not going to do one more year to get them into finals and then get the pats on the back for that, that would be selfish.

Currently seventh on the BFL ladder and eight points off fifth place, the Coutas have dropped their past four games

Waight said Nicol had done a good job developing the list.

“Rory has achieved a great deal with the playing group, driving investment levels, developing young players and helping them improve,” Waight said.

Rory Nicol will step down as Coutas coach after the 2023 season. Picture: Mark Wilson

“We have a strong up and coming list that is learning to play the right way thanks to Rory’s good work and we have an opportunity across the next four weeks to keep that finals dream alive.

“We support and understand Rory’s decision and he and his family are always welcome at the Coutas.”

Waight said work will commence soon to find the next senior coach.

Originally published as Queenscliff coach Rory Nicol will step down at the end of the season