Two-time Riddell premiership coach Arron Bray has made the shock decision to step down as coach of the Riddell District Football League club.
Bray, who claimed two premierships in as many years as coach of the Bombers, said the Bombers will always hold a special place in his heart.
“With a heavy heart, I’m announcing my decision to step down from my role as senior coach at Riddell Football Club,” he said in a statement on the club’s social media page.
“This it not a decision I’ve taken lightly-it comes after a great deal of reflection and emotion.
“The memories we’ve made together, the battles on the field, the moments of triumph, the setbacks that have made us stronger- they will stay with me forever.
“I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, and even prouder of the people I’ve had the privilege to work alongside.”
Bray said there was a brotherhood at the club, plenty of laughter and a relentless fight they have put in for each other each week.
He said this is not the end for him at the Bombers, just his time as coach.
Bray joined the Bombers at the end of 2023 having coached Rupertswood to an Essendon District Football League division 1 preliminary final that season.
He also previously coached Broadford in the RDFL.
“In a way this club has shaped who I am,” he said. “Not just as a coach, but as a person.
“Stepping away is painful, but I believe it’s the right moment for myself and for the club. I’ll always carry the Riddell Football Club in the my heart after winning back-to-back premierships, and I’ll be watching the club progress from afar now.
“This may be goodbye for now, but it’s never the end of the story.”
Speaking after the recent premiership that the two years were very different but just as special.
“The one last year I was pretty sketchy as I had lost three prelims which is always on the back of your mind,” he said following the grand final. “Are you ever going to get one?
“This year I was a lot more calmer until three quarter time, calmness went out the window.”
“They are a pretty special group. They drive their own standards.
“They are very easy to coach.”
The Bombers have already announced applications are open for the role, along with all coaching positions across senior football, women’s football and netball.
