Collie Eagles start hunt for a new coach

The Collie Eagles are on the hunt for a new coach after Clint Swallow decided not to renew his contract.

Swallow finished his two-year tenure after the Eagles first semi-final loss, when the premiership fancies were eliminated from the finals in straight sets.

After taking the Eagles to a grand final last season, Swallow had the team primed for another assault at an elusive premiership, only to lose to Harvey-Brunswick-Leschenault and the Harvey Bulls in consecutive finals.

Swallow said when he originally signed on to coach it was because the club needed “an experienced, senior coach”.

He said the club was now “in a way better position” than when he began his tenure.

“We underachieved this year,” he said.

“It was more disappointing for the players than myself.

“They were striving for what they wanted. I know they are disappointed with the results.”

Swallow said he was not sure if he would have another role at the club and was proud of his players in his two years as coach.

“We went from second last to a grand final experience,” he said.

“I was lucky enough to coach a Hayward medallist (Travis Cleggett) and two leading goalkickers.

“There are some good young boys who have come through in the Davidsons and Corey Gulvin.

“We are a local player-based club and spent no more than $30,000 each year which is lower than any other club.”

President Ash Stewart thanks Swallow for his services to the club.“He did a fantastic job,” he said.

“He was brilliant for our club and the development of our younger players.”

Stewart said the club was hoping to sign a local coach.

“We want to someone to help develop our kids,” he said. “We need to bring them through the league football.”