MPNFL: Peter Williamson steps down as coach of Bonbeach
Several former AFL players have emerged as candidates for the vacant Bonbeach coaching position after Peter Williamson’s resignation.
Local Footy
Don't miss out on the headlines from Local Footy. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Bonbeach coach Peter Williamson says work and family commitments are behind his decision to resign.
The 52-year-old steps down nine months after being appointed to the role last September.
He said he re-evaluated his commitments after the coronavirus crisis wiped out the 2020 season.
“It’s a hundred per cent me, just trying to get footy to fit into everything,’’ Williamson said on Tuesday morning.
Williamson stepped up to the head coach role after coaching Bonbeach’s Under 19s and being midfield coach of the Sharks’ senior side in 2019.
He said he hoped to stay involved at Bonbeach next year.
“It’s a fantastic club,’’ he said.
A Bonbeach statement said Williamson has had “a profound impact on our club’’.
“In very difficult circumstances he has done a tremendous job with all playing groups in 2020,’’ it read.
“His efforts with not only the playing group but equally supporting our netball division, volunteers and support staff has typified Peter’s ‘one club’ approach to his leadership style.’’
Several former AFL players have emerged as candidates for the vacant Bonbeach coaching position, with Paul Hopgood, John Hynes and Justin Peckett mentioned as possibilities.
Former Melbourne defender Hopgood coached Mt Eliza to a premiership in 2005.
Hynes, who played four games with Carlton, is a former Edi-Asp and MPNFL interleague coach.
Former St Kilda star Peckett coached Karingal and was to coach Bonbeach’s Under 19s, including two of his sons, in 2020.
Another candidate to surface is Ricky Ferraro, who resigned as Hastings coach recently. He is a former Bonbeach player.
Bonbeach made the preliminary final in MPNFL Division 1 last season, losing to eventual premiers Dromana.
MORE LOCAL FOOTY
Your ultimate Gippsland footy signing tracker
The silly season is well underway across Gippsland footy with clubs signing new players in droves. See every move throughout the off-season here.
GFNL ‘Round 0’ locked in as AFL Barwon reveals 2025 fixtures
AFL Barwon has locked in the fixtures for every league, and the Geelong competition has taken the AFL’s lead with its own opening round. See every game and all the key dates here.