EDFL 2019: Coburg Districts coach Chris Tankard to step down

With Coburg Districts chasing a finals appearance and their first flag since 1988, coach Chris Tankard has made a decision on his future at the EDFL Division 2 club.

Coburg Districts coach Chris Tankard addresses his players earlier this season. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Coburg Districts will have a new coach in 2020 after Chris Tankard’s decision to step aside at season’s end.

Tankard steered the Lions to the EDFL Division 2 decider two years ago and the club has contested finals twice since he took over the top job in 2014.

They are in a strong position to secure a top-four berth this year as the home-and-away campaign approaches the pointy end.

“He’s done a fantastic job for the club — from day one to whenever we finish,” Coburg Districts president Allan Chandler said.

“He’s professional, committed to our footy club and committed to the long-term future of our footy club.

“He just thinks … he can’t do a hell of a lot more and it’s time for someone else, a new voice, to come in.

“The footy club’s in very good shape. Chris has left a fantastic footprint within our footy club for a lot of clubs to follow.”

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Chandler said it was “business as usual” for the Lions as they chase their first senior flag since 1988.

Sunbury Kangaroos are red-hot favourites for the ultimate prize, while Moonee Valley, Burnside Heights, East Sunbury, Northern Saints and Coburg Districts are jostling for the other finals spots.

“There’s a prize there. We’ve started playing some good footy and our destiny’s in our own hands I suppose,” Chandler said.

The club is hoping to keep the experienced mentor involved next season and beyond.

“We’ve had some minor discussions, but we’ll get through the season first,” Chandler said.

“He’s very well-respected from within and externally through the EDFL.

“It’s going to be fantastic terms for him to leave on.”

Chandler said the club was yet to discuss Tankard’s successor but would “follow process, see who’s out there and interview as many as we can”.

Coburg Districts will face Moonee Valley at home on Saturday.

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