EFL 2019: Peter Farrell steps aside at Ferntree Gully
Peter Farrell has informed Ferntree Gully he won’t be continuing as its coach in 2020, but has confirmed interest from two rival EFL clubs in their vacant coaching positions.
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Outgoing Ferntree Gully coach Peter Farrell is “angling at a year off” but has confirmed interest from EFL clubs Knox and Upper Ferntree Gully.
Ferntree Gully started advertising for the coaching position last month, with Farrell informing the Eagles on Saturday night that he could not be continuing in the role next season.
The Eagles exited the EFL Division 3 flag race after an 18-point defeat against Waverley Blues on the weekend.
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Farrell said Knox and Upper Gully were “the only two that had made a formal approach to me” but indicated he would have a year away from coaching in 2020.
“I haven’t told anyone else that at this stage outside of a couple of people close to me and yourself,” Farrell said.
“You can put that out there if you want. I’m not sure (about coaching next year) and that’s the short answer.”
Both Knox and Upper Gully are yet to appoint a coach for next season.
Farrell had a five-year stint at Wally Tew Reserve, helping deliver Ferntree Gully its first flag in 29 years in 2016.
He said he was proud of his legacy at the club.
“I’m proud of the fact we were able to win a premiership and go up and still be really competitive,” he said.
“We’re certainly not far off the next level up, too, with our best side.
“I think I’m also proud of the fact we were able … I don’t know how many under-17s and under-19s we debuted over that five-year period.
“I’m proud of that and we’ve worked hard to build a foundation at the footy club with local homegrown players.
“I hope there’s a foundation there and I think there is.
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“The next person who takes over has got something to take the baton and take it to a next level, which would be great for the footy club.
“I’ve become personally connected to the footy club and it’s a bit sad to be ending but these things come to an end, don’t they?”
Ferntree Gully finished with a 14-4 record this year but bowed out of the flag race in straight sets.
Farrell said it was the right time to depart.
“I think freshness is probably an important thing for the club and me to honest,” he said.
“I probably go at it pretty hard, not that it takes a toll but it consumes you.”
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