By Tara Murray
Mernda will have a new coach for next year’s Northern Football League division 3 season.
The Demons announced on their Facebook page on Tuesday night, that Paul Derrick wouldn’t be continuing on next season.
Derrick has coached the side the last two seasons, finishing fifth both years. Both times their season came down to the final round.
In a message on the club’s Facebook page, Derrick thanked the club for the opportunity to coach the senior side.
Derrick, who coached Roxburgh Park before returning to Mernda, is a life member at the club. He played for the club for 20 years, coached the under-19s and was interim senior coach for seven games in 2012.
“Well not the way we’d hoped the ending of our season would go, but unfortunately that’s footy,” Derrick’s message said.
“Our aim from the start was to leave it better than we found it and, although finals weren’t reached, we believe the club is in a fantastic position for success in the near future.
“Having lost a wealth of experience over the last 12 months, we’ve managed to bring a great group of young footballers together for the future and the second half of the season showed what is to come with us winning eight of the last 10 games, while blooding a heap of our up and coming under-19s.
“To Craig, Ronso and Lee – it’s been great working with you lads, your commitment to myself and the playing group is unquestionable and I’m sure all have appreciated your input throughout the last two seasons, I can’t thank you all enough.
“Thanks to the supporters who came along every week (especially our women footballers) – your support was greatly appreciated.”
The Demons finished their season on a high on Saturday, with a 13.5 (83)-8.14 (62) win against Old Eltham Collegians.
The Demons reserves and under-19s both start their finals campaign this weekend.
