Dean Helmers couldn’t have asked for much more in his two years as coach of the Romsey Football Club.
A perfect season in his first year at the Riddell District Football League club was followed by a second premiership 12 months later.
But now Helmers has decided to step away from the Redbacks.
“I’ve decided to have a year off and have some spare time again,” Helmers told Star Weekly.
“I love doing it, but it takes so much time. It’s time to give a bit back to the family and that’s pretty exciting.”
Helmers said he couldn’t have imagined the success the club would have in the two years.
“I’m thrilled with that outcome and it’s nothing to be scoffed at,” he said.
“In the first year we won every game and that puts more pressure on the staff and players to keep winning. This year was more pleasing for me as we played so many young players and locals. We weren’t always favourites, but we seemed to get the job done.”
Helmers says he still has the fire in the belly to coach.
“I’ve had quite a few offers, but I haven’t given any thought to them at this stage,” he said.
“I’ll have more idea in four to six weeks what will be happening with work and family commitments. I’ll never coach if I can’t give 100 per cent.”
Redbacks president Wayne Milburn said the club couldn’t have asked for any more from Helmers.
“The last couple of years have been fantastic and Dean has been sensational,” Milburn said.
“With a new job and new baby he just couldn’t commit to the role 100 per cent.”
The club has started the hunt for a new coach and a reserves coach.
This year’s under-16 coach, Adam Rademaker, will coach the under-18s next year.
“We hope to start interviews soon and have someone appointed by the middle of November – the end of November at the latest,” Milburn said. “What sort of coach we get depends on the interviews. We’d like one with experience.”
The Redbacks are also looking for an A-grade netball coach for next season.
And they will hold netball player try-outs for next season for all four senior age groups on November 26, December 3 and December 10.
For details on both coaching roles and the netball try-outs, visit secretaryrfnc@gmail.com
Tara Murray
