Bentleigh Greens part ways with David Chick after six VPL1 matches, turn to coaching great

David Chick’s tenure at Bentleigh Greens lasted just six matches, departing after Friday night’s win over Preston Lions, with the club turning to a coaching great.

George Katsakis during his time at Heidelberg United.

It’s taken just six weeks of the VPL1 season for the first coaching change of the year.

Bentleigh Greens confirmed on Saturday that, despite leading the club to victory over Preston Lions on Friday night, David Chick would depart the club.

On Monday, the club announced three-time NPL premiership-winner George Katsakis had been appointed.

Chick was appointed in September last year, tasked with rebuilding Bentleigh after relegation from NPL.

The Greens sit eighth with a 2-1-3 record but a 7-1 loss to Western United and 2-1 loss to Northcote – both at Kingston Heath – put his role under pressure.

Bentleigh said travel pressures meant Chick wasn’t able to fully commit to the club.

“We would like to inform our valued community and supporters that after our recent game, our head coach, David Chick, has expressed his decision to step down from his position at Bentleigh Greens,” it read.

“Following an honest and frank conversation with the club, David cited personal circumstances and the challenge of committing fully to the role due to the considerable distance he resides from the club as the primary reasons for his resignation.

“The club has accepted David’s resignation, and we are in the process of making arrangements for the future.”

Katsakis arrives after a nearly 16-year tenure at Heidelberg United.

The Warriors won three NPL Victoria premierships, one championship, VPL1 premiership, Dockerty Cup and NPL National Championship under his guidance.

The club also reached the Australia Cup quarter-finals on four occasions.

Katsakis was named NPL Coach of the Year in 2017 and holds the NPL games coached record with 239 matches.

He will take charge for the Round 7 match against high-flying Kingston City at Kingston Heath on Friday night.

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“George, a celebrated figure in football, comes to us with an illustrious track record,” a club statement read.

“Known as the longest-serving coach in Heidelberg’s history, he has led his teams through some of the most memorable moments in Victoria’s premier league.

“As George steps into his new role at Bentleigh Greens, we’re excited about the wealth of experience, passion, and visionary leadership he brings to our club. We can’t wait to see the heights we will reach together under his guidance.”

Bentleigh has been contacted for comment.