Melton Centrals hope outgoing head coach Brian Wheelahan will remain at the Riddell District Football League club in some capacity next year.
Wheelahan stepped down from the top job at the end of the season after coaching Centrals for three years.
Club president Liam Wilson said Centrals had started talks aimed at finding a suitable role for him.
“Brian is going to get offers left, right and centre from other people because he’s a gun coach,” Wilson said.
“We’ve had chats with him to see what role he can play next year for the club. He’s a Centrals legend, so we want him to stick around.’’
The Centrals are focused on finding Wheelahan’s replacement, with the club open to signing a playing or non-playing coach. Melton finished this season 10th on the ladder with five wins.
Wilson believes there needs to be a change of mindset in regards to what the club is capable of achieving next season.
“The mindset has to be that we’re here to win finals and we’re here to be successful,’’ he said.
‘‘If players don’t think we can do that they’re not welcome, because they’re not on the same wavelength. We’re all about winning and we want success.”
Wilson put that plan to his players after the final game and was rapt that all had recommitted at this stage.
Centrals also hope to cash in on their developing under-18 side, with a number of rising stars ready to make the jump to senior football.
“It was our first year of under-18s and we played five kids in the seniors. That’s fantastic for the club,” Wilson said.
