Peter Bugden will remain at Craigieburn Football Club after a push from players saw him change his mind and stay at the Essendon District Football League club.
Despite leading the side to a division 1 premiership just weeks ago, Bugden had decided to move on and not coach the Eagles next year.
The club had advertised the coaching role, but last week, after changes off-field, Bugden re-signed as coach for the next two seasons, for his fourth and fifth years at the Eagles.
“In the end it was the players,” Bugden said.
“There was a big push from them and, after just coaching them to a premiership, it was hard to step away.
“I had question marks and was a little reluctant … I’m a bit more confident now.”
The Eagles will play in premier division next season, with Bugden saying they will have to add some fresh faces to the playing group.
“A few players have moved on, including Cameron and Jason Cloke. They’re going to play at a different level and I support them in making those moves.
“We have to replace them, but the majority of the playing group will be staying on. We’re in pretty good shape and have some good footballers here, but a number of juniors are coming through the club as well.”
Bugden said his squad was under no illusions as to the challenge facing it.
“It’s a tough jump into a tough league,” he said.
“We’re really excited about it.”
