Melton South is on the hunt for a new coach after Mathew Sutton informed the club that 2014 would be his last year in the top job.
Sutton told the club committee and the playing group of his decision to stand down on Tuesday night.
Melton South president Peter Earl said Sutton had been a fantastic clubman throughout his time as a Panther.
“At this point in time Matt will be ceasing coaching and playing at the end of the year,” Earl said.
“His business commitments are pretty big. He has a young family and I think he thinks it is time to finish up.
“Matt is a really good bloke and a terrific clubman. He has been at Melton South for 11 years.
‘‘He is very passionate about his footy. I’m sure he won’t lose the blue and white to go to another club. I am certain about that.”
Sutton has enjoyed a decorated career in the Ballarat Football League which includes being named in the competition’s team of the year five times.
He took over as player coach at Melton South last year and led the Panthers to five wins and an eighth-placed finish on the ladder.
This season Melton South has won two games and is in 10th.
After injuring his hamstring two weeks ago, Sutton will be coaching from the sidelines this week against Redan.
He is hoping to be back playing the following week against Melton.
With the hunt now on for a new coach, Sutton has already offered to help the Panthers find his replacement.
“Prior to him indicating his thoughts [and] obviously the club knowing his age and his increased work commitments, we have already had a look around,” Earl said.
“He is actually naming people who he thinks we should consider in looking around for a replacement.”
