The former AFL-listed utility said work commitments were his number one priority.

Taggert has spent two seasons in the Hampden league, with his second as co-coach alongside Graeme Twaddle.

Twaddle stood down following the Eagles’ finals exit after three seasons at the helm.

Taggert said he would not take on a coaching role in 2018, should he remain at the Bushfield-based club.

“There are still a couple of options I am weighing up,” he said.

“In the next month or so I will have a clearer idea of what my movements are. If I stay local, I’ll still be at North.”

Taggert has fielded offers from South Australian-based clubs.

“It’s more just for work. Footy is not my main focus,” he said.

“I am trying to get a decent career.”

Warrnambool is the only other Hampden club still searching for a coach.

Warrnambool president Simon Perry said the Blues were canvassing their options.  

John Cook led the Blues in a non-playing capacity for two seasons.

“We’re not going to rush into anything,” Perry said.

“We want to make the right decision for the football club going forward.”

Seven of the eight coaches committed for next season were reappointed.

Port Fairy’s Dan Nicholson is the only new face at this stage.

Phil Carse (Camperdown), Levi Dare (Cobden), Matt Dunn (Hamilton Kangaroos), Luke Crane (Portland), Michael Sargeant (Terang Mortlake) and Mathew Buck (South Warrnambool) will remain in their roles.