Michael Hartley steps down from Castlemaine coaching role

A former Essendon and Hawthorn player has made his call on whether he’ll coach again next year. Here is what we know.

Michael Hartley has stepped down as coach of Castlemaine. Picture Yuri Kouzmin

Castlemaine will still have Michael Hartley involved at the club next year despite the ex-AFL player making the decision to step aside from coaching the Magpies.

The Magpies have announced after two years Hartley will be replaced as coach by this year’s captain Bailey Henderson.

Hartley during his tenure has turned the club’s senior fortunes, going from two win seasons in 2022 and 2023 to being a shot at making finals at the halfway point of this season.

But he’s now made the decision to pass the baton on to someone else while still playing at the Bendigo league club.

Michael Hartley will still play at Castlemaine in 2026. Picture: Castlemaine Football Netball Club.

“Michael has made the decision to step aside as coach in 2026 and turn his full attention to playing at Castlemaine and push the driving standard,” the club said in a statement.

“Michael has served as coach for 2024 and 2025, while being a beacon on the field with his talents.

“He has shown his ability to not only play at both ends but be very supportive to our midfield group in the ruck.

“This is a tremendous coup for the club and the players to have commitment this early from Bailey and Michael.”

The immediate focus for Castlemaine will be to make finals this year for the first time in more than a decade.

The Magpies take on Golden Square in a must-win match on Saturday.