Tara Murray
Thomastown coach Peter Bugden has made the decision to step down at the end of the Northern Football League division 2 season.
Bugden joined the club this season after a number of years off coaching as he sought to help take the club to the next level.
President Rob Mazniovski released a statement on the Bears social on Wednesday about Bugden’s coaching future.
“It is with a mix of emotions that I announce the decision of our senior coach, Peter Bugden, to step down from his coaching position at the end of the season,” he said.
“After much contemplation and soul searching, Peter has reached the difficult decision due to personal reasons.
“Over the course of the last season, he has poured his heart and soul into coaching our club, but he believes it is time to pass the baton to someone new.
“As many of you may know, coaching is not just a passion, it’s a way of life. In his many years as senior coach at three different clubs he has witnessed significant change in the world of coaching.
“The demands and challenges have grown, making it a greater sacrifice for him and his family and not something he feels he can commit to any longer.”
Mazniovski acknowledged that the results hadn’t been what they had hoped, but said Bugden had remained steadfast in his dedication to the club.
He said Bugden had played a pivotal role in creating an enjoyable environment that fosters growth on and off the field.
“It is important to us to acknowledge the immense contribution Peter has made to our club,” he said.
“In particular his contribution and push to help us field an under-19s side for the time in over a decade.
“Let us celebrate the shared moments of growth, friendship and joy he has brought to the club.”
The club will begin its search for a new coach in the coming weeks.
