MPNFL: Seaford appoints Zac Vansittart as coach for season 2019

SEAFORD has had a change of coach, with Ben Murphy stepping down and Tigers playing-assistant coach Zac Vansittart taking over the reins for 2019.

New Seaford coach Zac Vansittart in action for the Tigers against Sorrento last month. Picture: Andy Brownbill

SEAFORD has had a change of coach, with Ben Murphy stepping down and Tigers playing-assistant Zac Vansittart taking over the reins for 2019.

Murphy, who still had a year to run on his contract, met with the club following the end of season review.

“Both parties agreed that in the best interests of the playing group and for Ben and his young family that he step away from the cut throat role that it takes to be a senior coach and have time away from the game he passionately loves,’’ Seaford president Dale O’Neil said.

Murphy coached Seaford for three seasons from 2016-18.

“Ben won the respect of everyone within the club when he walked through the doors, instilling a coaching program not many of the players had witnessed before,’’ O’Neil said.

Ben Murphy coached Seaford for three seasons.

New Seaford coach Zac Vansittart (left) shakes on it with club president Dale O'Neil.

O’Neil said the future of Seaford was in strong hands with Vansittart taking over.

“Zac is already much admired and loved by the playing group and Tiger faithful for his courageous attacks on the football field,’’ he said.

“Zac will continue to play in 2019 and is no stranger to player coaching role as he had done previously at his club Bunyip before relocating to the area where he teaches at Carrum Primary School.’’

Seaford will drop down to Division 2 next year and O’Neil said most of its senior playing list had already recommitted.