Two-time GPS premiership coach Michael Wellings steps down as Ipswich Grammar coach
After two premierships and one state title, this Ipswich Grammar basketball coach has decided to step away with an iconic Old Boy to replace him.
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The man who helped rebuild Ipswich Grammar back into a GPS basketball powerhouse has called time on his career as the school’s head coach.
Michael Wellings steps away from the role after 14 years at the helm – a tenure which included two GPS premierships in 2015 and 2018 as well as the school’s one and only state championship in 2014.
Old Boy Jason Ralph, one of the fan favourites of the IGS basketball program, will replace Wellings.
Rockhampton born Wellings took over the team in 2007 and played QBL for the Ipswich Force, said he had made the decision to spend more time with his family.
“It was a tough decision,” Wellings said.
“It came down to my No. 1 priority which are my two sons Charlie and Leyton.
“In 2019, I was on my way to Brisbane State High for a GPS fixture when my phone rang, Charlie had scored his first goal in soccer, right then, I thought I don’t want to miss these moments anymore.
“I now get the opportunity to coach their teams and watch them grow and enjoy sport as much as I have. My father didn’t miss any of my fixtures growing up and that is a memory that I still have today.
“I honestly can say that I cherished this position, when I first took the job I was still playing in the QBL, when my career ended playing-wise, I was able to pass my love of the game on to these great kids.”
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Wellings said he definitely felt like his time in charge of the IGS program was a success.
“When I first took over the goal every year with GPS for me was top three,” he said.
“Winning premierships in GPS is so hard, you just need everything to go right, but when you get them it is very fulfilling.
“During my tenure we got top three 11 times, won two GPS premierships as well as two bronze medals and a gold medal at state championships in 2014.
“As far as highlights, both GPS premierships are hard to top, they are both special.
“The 2015 team was amazing, guys like Verle (Williams) and Marty (Leahy) were just amazing players but also so great to coach and so passionate about the school.”
Wellings said he felt confident the team was in great hands with Jason Ralph.
I have known Jason for a very long time. I remember him filling up water bottles for our QBL team,” Wellings said.
“It has been so great watching him grow into a great person and a great coach.
“He is more than ready to step up, and I am looking forward to coming to games and cheering the boys on.”
Wellings also said he wanted to thank everyone who supported him during his 14 years as coach.
“In particular current headmaster, Richard Morrison, former teacher and coach Michael Murray, as well as my wife Shannon, who always supported me through the ups and downs of every season,” he said.
The 2021 GPS basketball season will tip-off in Term 3.
Originally published as Two-time GPS premiership coach Michael Wellings steps down as Ipswich Grammar coach
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