Hammond told players after the Bombers' 10-point win against Port Fairy on Saturday that he was stepping aside so the club could pursue recruiting a playing coach.

Hammond, who led the Bombers to six wins this season, said their young playing list would be appealing to a playing coach.

"I've put the club first," Hammond said. "I think it is the right step to be looking for a playing coach."

Hammond had kept his decision quiet until after Saturday's match.

"I've still been saying it was the start of next year so there were a few people who came up and were shocked."

Hammond said the Bombers had an ideal playing list, several players aged 20 and under with 50 senior games' experience plus a host of under 18 and under 16 players who had been blooded this season with success.

"People should want to coach Cobden, it looks like a good place to be. It's all there."

The Bombers have also enjoyed success at under 14 and under 16 levels in recent seasons, plus they won the reserves grand final last year.

grbest@fairfaxmedia.com.au