EDFL: Craigieburn beings search for Justin Sherman’s replacement

Craigieburn has turned to two well-known figures for the rest of the season following Justin Sherman’s departure as the search for a new coach gets underway.

Two of the biggest names at Craigieburn have been tasked with leading the club for the rest of the season.

Former AFL big man Jake Carlisle and premiership captain Christian McErlain have been appointed interim co-coaches for the final three home and away games after Justin Sherman stood down from the position.

Eagles president John Perrone said the pair would work well in tandem.

“They’re both well known people at our club and were assistants to Justin,” he said.

“Jake has been a powerhouse for Craigieburn off the field since his return. A lot look up to him from the senior team right down to our juniors.

“He has already made it clear to me he wants to be here next season and won’t be going anywhere.”

Craigieburn interim co-coach Jake Carlisle. Picture: Andy Brownbill

On Thursday morning, Craigieburn advertised its coaching position for the 2023 season with Perrone insisting the Eagles were in a strong position to move forward.

“We want to put our structures in place as soon as possible,” he said.

“A lot of people have reached out already but we need to do our due diligence.

“It’s important for the playing group and the club. We’re looking to bring in another quality person. Off the field we’re in a strong position.

“The committee has a clear vision of where we want to go and now we have to find the next person to help us deliver that.”

Perrone believes a strong core group of juniors and “young guns” would continue to develop under the next coach.

“Our role as a club is to help our players become the best they can be,” he said.

“There’s no doubt we’re going to need an injection of some more players to help add to our depth. We’ve got commited coaches here and they’re keen to work with whoever the next person in charge is.”

Applications for the position will close on September 30 and can be sent to [e-mail]

SHERMAN STANDS DOWN

Craigieburn is on the lookout for its third coach in as many years.

The Essendon District league club confirmed on Tuesday morning Justin Sherman had stood down from the senior role with immediate effect due to personal reasons.

Sherman was tasked with leading Craigieburn’s Division 1 return after it was relegated from the top tier after a winless 2021.

He had replaced Lance Whitnall.

An interim coach is set to be finalised at training on Tuesday night according to Eagles president John Perrone.

Sherman’s coaching staff included former Essendon and St Kilda swingman Jake Carlisle.

Justin Sherman has stood down as Craigieburn coach. Picture: Andy Brownbill

“It is disappointing we have to make changes again but family comes first for everyone at our club and this is no different,” he said.

“We as a club would like to thank Justin for his work and wish him all the best for the future.”

Whoever does take over from Sherman will have a massive task on their hands to ensure the Eagles maintain their Division 1 status for 2023.

They currently sit ninth on the ladder with a 2-13 record ahead of Sunbury Kangaroos by one game and percentage.

Craigieburn face Tullamarine (home), Westmeadows (home) and Moonee Valley (away) in the final three games.

Perrone said work commitments among the playing group had been one of the biggest challenges this season.

“We’ve lost eight to nine players because of work,” he said.

“That’s a dilemma lots of players are facing at the moment. Clubs are struggling.

“People might say we have good juniors coming through but they’ll get to an age where they need to make a decision.”