Gisborne Football Club is on the hunt for a new coach after Rod Sharp made the decision to step down as coach.
In a statement from the club, the Bulldogs said Sharp had stepped down from the position effective immediately.
“Rod has made this decision as he believes it is in the best interests of the club moving forward,” the statement said.
“The GFNC wishes to thank Rod for his hard work and dedication over the past two seasons.
“His passion for our club and the many hours he has put into developing our players has been first class.”
Sharp had coached the side the last two years, including to a preliminary final last season.
Bulldogs president Colin Rodgers told Star Weekly that there were a couple of factors that played a role in Sharp making the decision.
“There’s been things that have been on going and he had wanted to make sure the total playing group behind him,” Rodgers said.
“The commitment was needed for the next two to three years as we are rebuilding and Rod decided it would not be for him and would be for someone else to lead the club forward.”
The decision comes after Sharp was reappointed to the role mid-August.
Rodgers said a fair bit had happened at the club since then, but wouldn’t be drawn the details.
He said the club was now turning its attention to finding a coach and recruiting new players.
Committee members will meet this week to discuss what sort of coach the club would be looking for.
“We need to recruit some high level footballers to bridge the gap at the club,” Rodgers said.
“We need some proven footballers who can help our young group develop even further.”
