By Tara Murray
Gisborne is on the hunt for a new A-grade netball coach with Kim Bailey standing down from the role just weeks out from the Bendigo Netball League season.
Bailey, who was due to coach the side for a second season, stepped down from the role due to family and work commitments.
While disappointed not to continue coaching, Bailey said she couldn’t continue to juggle everything.
Bailey has returned to her former role at AFL Goldfields which sees her manage three netball leagues, all which play on Saturdays. She is also Geelong Cougars division 1 Victorian Netball League coach.
“Things weren’t going to work with the kids and work,” she said.
“I thought I would be able to do it all, but it isn’t the case.
“I didn’t want to let them down, it’s a good team and a good group of girls.
“It’s a tough decision, but it’s one of those things that happens, but family and work have to come first.”
Bailey had nothing but praise for the Gisborne committee and the support they have given her.
In a statement, Bulldogs president John Wood thanked Bailey for her time at the club.
“Kim Bailey has advised me that she does not believe that she can commit to the amount of time she feels is required to fully carry out her role as the head coach of the GFNC netball department.
“She believes the position of head coach and coach of the GFNC A-grade netball team requires a full commitment, so as to do justice to the role and as such has decided to step down.
“Kim is a fantastic coach who almost achieved the highest accolade in last year’s grand final and she has a great ability to
pass on her vast netball knowledge to her players and other coaches in the group.
“She also brought a high degree of professionalism to our netball department and we as a club will always be grateful
for the contribution that she made.”
Wood, who is currently overseas, said they would start looking for a new coach when he returns to Australia next week.
