Shannon Henwood steps down as senior coach of Hampton Park
The Redbacks will go into 2021 with their fourth coach in four years after Shannon Henwood stepped aside because of work and family commitments.
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Shannon Henwood has departed Hampton Park without coaching a match.
The classy midfielder was appointed to take over from Jussie Hill and lead the Redbacks into Division 2 of the Southern league after their Division 3 premiership in 2019.
COVID-19 meant he never moved a magnet this year.
In the past month there have been rumours about Henwood’s future and tonight they turned to fact when the club confirmed he had stood down.
“After a lot of thought I have decided I will not continue coaching for season 2021. In different circumstances I would have loved to coach for one more year but with a young family and work commitments I will not have the time to fulfil the job,’’ Henwood said.
“I have loved my time at Hampton Park and thank the club for welcoming me in.
“I have made friendships for a lifetime and to have such a success in winning a flag is just a bonus. I wish everyone the greatest success for next season and beyond.”
The former Doveton senior coach added: “I want to thank everyone who is involved with the team and the club for all their hard work and support. It is a shame we did not get to play but no one could have predicted what this year has brought.’’
He may return to the Doves, where the Henwood family is royalty.
Henwood’s decision to resign means the Redbacks will go into 2021 with their fourth senior coach in four years.
Hill replaced Jason Chapple in October, 2018, but relocated to Queensland with work this year.
Hill’s one season brought two flags, in the seniors and reserves. It was the Redbacks’ first senior premiership in 21 years.
Hampton Park president Tim Ziegler said tonight the club was grateful for Henwood’s service as a player and assistant coach and “all the input and hard work as senior coach in the season that was not meant to be’’.
“We wish Shannon and family nothing but the best for their future endeavours,’’ he said.
“The HPFNC will now go on the hunt for a new senior coach, to lead us in what is uncertain times but what we know will be a successful 2021 season.’’
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