SFNL: Murrumbeena coach Liam Wilson will step down at season’s end

One of the Southern league’s finest players will step down as coach at season’s end, intent on giving his players what he experienced as a player. See the latest.

Murrumbeena coach Liam Wilson talks to his players during the Southern Football Netball League 2023 Division 2 Senior match between Murrumbeena and Doveton Doves at Murrumbeena Park in Murrumbeena, Victoria on July 8, 2023. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

Liam Wilson wanted to be a coach that could provide his players with the on-field joys he had.

One of Southern league’s finest players will step down as Murrumbeena’s coach this season after two years in the hot seat.

Wanting to spend more time with his young family while juggling his own business has led to his resignation.

He remains intent on steering his Lions to a premiership this season, an accomplishment he achieved twice as a player.

“I always put myself in the players’ position, and what I enjoyed as a footballer,” he said.

“I had so much fun in my football career, so I just wanted to create that environment for the boys – hopefully I got somewhere near that.

“That’s always a challenge with all the individuals, personalities and egos, but it’s a side of coaching I enjoy more than the wins and losses to tell you the truth.”

Murrumbeena coach Liam Wilson (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

Despite losing the first semi-final to Doveton on Saturday, Murrumbeena remains a contender for the Division 2 flag.

Wilson, particularly after the heartbreak of 2022, wants his players to experience the pleasure of premiership success.

“It would mean the world to me, not so much for myself,” he said.

“I have been fortunate enough to win two flags – in this position as well, we got beat in the first round and had to do it the hard way – that’s what I spoke to the boys about on Saturday.

“We might’ve needed that shake up. I told the boys this is the best, the hardest and the most rewarding way to do it.

“To bow out with a flag would be more important to help get the boys the experience I have always wanted them to have.

“I have experienced it and it’s one of the best days of your life and it’s all I want the boys to experience.”

As for whether he will coach again, Wilson will spend a year off and assess whether he still has the spark.

“It’s been a few years since we have been able to do that so thought I’d take a year break and see if I miss it, if I miss it I will get back into it,” he said.