DERRICK Filo’s 29-year playing and coaching career in the Bendigo Football Netball League has come to an end – for now.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Filo and star forward Nathan Thompson have stepped down as Kyneton co-coaches.
Thompson will remain at the Tigers as a player, but Filo has called time on his coaching career.
“Kyneton is in a position where they need a coach who can give the club more time and I’m just not in a position to do that,’’ he said yesterday.
“For the betterment of the club, I think it’s the right time for me to step aside.
“The club is making progress and I’d love to continue to be a part of the push up the ladder.
“But I have three young kids and I live in Bendigo, so the travel is hard and I need a break.
“I’m looking forward to being able to watch my kids play soccer and basketball for a change.”
Filo made his senior debut with Castlemaine in 1984 before embarking on one of the most decorated playing and coaching careers in league history.
He was part of Castlemaine’s 1992 premiership side and won a Michelsen Medal with the Magpies.
He was playing-coach of Kyneton’s 1995 and 1997 premiership sides and playing-coach of Eaglehawk’s 2007 and 2008 premierships.
Filo also had a playing-coach stint with Kangaroo Flat where he led the Roos to the 2000 grand final against Castlemaine.
“People don’t realise just how much time it takes to be a coach these days,’’ Filo said.
“If I was 27 and didn’t have kids, I’d have the time to coach.
“The busiest time is probably October to December where you’re always on the phone trying to retain and recruit players.
“I’m enjoying the freedom of not having to do those things.”
Filo is likely to retain his position as assistant coach to Jeff Brennan for the BFNL inter-league campaign.
“I’ll still watch a few games and keep my toe in the water,’’ he said.
“I’m not ruling out coaching again down the track, but right now the best thing for me and my family is for me to have a break.”
Kyneton is in the process of trying to sign a playing-coach to replace Filo and Thompson.