Hume City and coach Louie Acevski have parted ways just days before the club’s FFA Cup match against Marconi Stallions
City released a statement on Thursday morning saying that the club had parted ways with Acevski and assistant coach Zoran Markovski by “mutual consent”.
The shock announcement came on the back of Acevski telling the National Premier League club that he wasn’t planning to coach on next season.
Acevski said he had made the decision to spend more time with his family next year, having been selfish with his soccer, first as a player and then a coach.
“I had a meeting with the president [Steve Kaya] for a chat about the current situation and started talking about next year,” Acevski told Star Weekly.
“I was honest, and said that I would be taking a rest next year to have time to spend with the kids and my wife.
“Steve thought for a little bit and said we should part immediately.
“I would have liked to finish what I’ve started, but I respect his decision.”
Acevski said there were no bitter feelings.
The club made the semi-finals of the Dockerty Cup and is set to make the NPL finals.
“I’ve left the club in a great position as one of the strongest NPL clubs in the country,” Acevski said.
“I’ve made some great friends and met some great footballers. I’ve had a great time in the last eight years as both player and coach.”
Technical director Dean Hennessey will be caretaker coach for the rest of the season. Hennessey has extensive coaching experience.
“I brought Dean to the club,” Acevski said. “I’ve known him for many years and he has a lot of experience and is a great person. He’ll definitely play a part in the club having success.”
Acevski said last year’s FFA Cup success, when City made it to the final four, was his highlight as coach.
“It was unbelievable,” Acevski said.
“It wasn’t just playing Melbourne Victory – it was the whole lot of it. The game against the Brisbane Strikers was one of the most enjoyable moments in my whole career.”
