Pitchford resigns as Lions coach

Photo:  Stephen Pitchford [PlessPix]

Stephen Pitchford has resigned as Victory League coach of Kingboreough Lions United.

The Lions lost 8-0 on Saturday at home at Lightwood Park against Northern Rangers.

They are currently sixth on the Victory League standings and lost 6-0 the previous weekend to league-leaders South Hobart.

Kingborough Lions United released the following statement this evening:

“Kingborough Lions United FC would like to announce that after the weekend’s game against Northern Rangers, Head Coach Stephen Pitchford tendered his resignation.

“The club would like to thank Stephen and his assistant Dirk Gadd for the work that they have done with the KLUFC Victory League team over the course of the season.

“Stephen has stated that upcoming work commitments were going to make it very difficult for him to give the role the time that it required for the remainder of the season.

“The KLUFC committee has had to work quickly to fill this position with minimal disruption to the Victory League squad.

“Recognising the NPL requirements for candidates needing C-Licence accreditation, the Club is pleased to announce that it has appointed Colin Robbins to the role of interim Head Coach for the remainder of the 2014 season.

“Colin is an aspiring football coach who has progressed through the Club’s youth ranks, working with the Club's VDL team this season and possessing a good working relationship with players in the VL squad.

“Colin has been integral in establishing the Club’s successful Young Lions SAP program, injury management program, and mentoring the implementation of the National Curriculum with the Club's youth and junior coaches.

“The club sees this as an exciting opportunity for Colin to progress his coaching experience by testing himself at the highest level with the support of seasoned Senior Coach Tim Dale as assistant.

“Geoff Freeman, who has extensive coaching experience at the Club, will take up the vacated VDL role assisted by Ross Hinkley.

“Martin Dunnington will continue in his role of U20 coach in the Club's High Performance program.”