VFL 2019: Coburg coach Leigh Adams steps down after two years

Former North Melbourne player Leigh Adams is likely to chase AFL coaching opportunities after resigning from VFL club Coburg.

Coburg coach Leigh “Patch’’ Adams is standing down.

Coburg senior coach Leigh “Patch’’ Adams is stepping down at the end of the season.

The former North Melbourne onballer told the VFL club yesterday that he would be moving on after two years in charge.

The Lions players were informed last night.

Adams joined the stand-alone Burgers after a fairytale flag with South Croydon in the Eastern Football League in 2017.

Coburg finished with one win, one draw and 16 losses last season but, despite an exodus of senior players, has improved to 2-12 this season, with three of the defeats by a goal or less.

Leigh Adams lifting South Croydon’s premiership cup with captain Daniel King.

In a statement, Coburg said Adams’ resignation would be effective from the Round 21 game against Footscray at Piranha Park on August 24.

“Leigh joined the club as senior coach prior to the 2018 season and we wish him all the best for the next chapter of his football coaching journey,’’ the statement said.

“The club will soon begin its process of replacing Leigh in the role of senior coach for the 2020 VFL season.

“The club will not be making any further comment at this stage and we encourage all Lions fans to get to ADCON Stadium tomorrow to cheer on our Lions players against Port Melbourne at 2pm.’’

Adams, 31, who played 104 games for North Melbourne, is a part-time coach at Coburg.

He is likely to pursue a coaching role at AFL level next season.

Adams has been contacted for comment.