Nick O’Sullivan last night opened debate on a successor, suggesting the Hampden league should consider appointing a playing coach next year.
O’Sullivan, in his second year as Bottle Greens coach, said he was undecided about extending his tenure to a third season.
“At this stage I’m up in the air,” O’Sullivan said.
“It was never going to be a long-term thing after the opportunity came up a couple of years ago.
“I think it might be time for someone to motivate the players in a different way. We’ll sit down and see what the Hampden league wants.
“I’m more than happy for a new bloke to come and take over if they are going to take them to the next level.”
O’Sullivan noted the impact Ovens and Murray playing coach Matt Pendergast had on the contest and his players.
He said a playing coach would be more in touch with the latest developments in the game, including drills and tactics. “Maybe it’s time to look at a playing coach,” he said. O’Sullivan said he was pleased with the attitude players had adopted towards interleague since he took over, having vowed to get the Bottle Greens to win back respect.
“I’m very proud of everyone who has committed to the cause. I’m more than appreciative of their efforts and I hope the same blokes who put their hand up this year put their hands up again because that’s what you need, passion and a similar group,” he said.
O’Sullivan wanted to pay tribute to his coaching staff, Shane Threlfall and selectors Andrew Foster, Kevin Russell, Jason Conheady, Brett Taylor and Rod Ryan, for their contributions.
He also thanked the executive and chief executive officer Mike Farrow for their support. Earlier, president Bob Guiney addressed the players after the eight-goal loss, heaping praise on O’Sullivan.
“I don’t think I’ve met a more passionate person,” he said.