Glenn Michie entering last season as Devon Meadows coach

DEVON Meadows coach Glenn Michie has announced that season 2018 will be his last in charge of the Panthers.

Devon Meadows coach Glenn Michie says 2018 will be his last season at the helm. Picture: Chris Eastman

DEVON Meadows coach Glenn Michie has announced that season 2018 will be his last in charge of the Panthers.

“With my family growing up and responsibilities at work picking up as well, it’s the right time,” Michie said last week.

“I let the club know at a committee meeting the other night.”

Michie, a police officer, is also busy on the home front with three kids under nine and said he hoped his early announcement would allow the Panthers plenty of time to find a replacement.

“I love the place and I’ve been very fortunate to be given an opportunity at the Meadows,” he said.

“I’ll still be heavily involved in the club, it’s just that after nine years (of coaching), it’s been a big impost on family time and the mental effort that’s required isn’t as easy as it once was.”

Former Cranbourne player Mathew Fletcher has joined Devon Meadows. Picture: Jason Sammon

Michie says he’s “100 percent” committed to guiding Devon Meadows to success this year and believes he has the list to do it. Devon Meadows’ recruits include Mathew Fletcher from Cranbourne, Michael Theodoridis (Drouin), Gavin Kerr (back from injury), Troy Aust (returning from Beaconsfield) and Cal O’Hare (back from injury).

Club great Jesse Dehey looks like playing on after having a retirement re-think.

The Panthers’ key losses are Curtis Barker to Seaford, Steve McInnes to Karingal and big Jesse Bowe to West Meadows.

*Pearcedale plays its first practice match this Saturday, tackling St Kilda City. Dales coach Leigh Stewart says his club has a similar list to last season.