12 October 2023: Kingborough Lions United FC have announced that Simon Edwards, Head Coach of the Club’s Women’s High-Performance Program and WSL has stepped down as the Club prepares for the 2024 season.
Edwards, who was the architect Kingborough Lions United FC’s Women’s High- Performance Program twelve years ago has been instrumental in the development and growth in women’s football at the Club, with just under forty percent of the Club’s playing members being female. This number compares to twenty two percent nationally and around thirty percent across Tasmania.
“Simon’s contribution to women’s football in our Club has been enormous and cannot be under-stated” said Club President Brian Downes. “The leadership and inspiration Simon has provided to hundreds of players within our Women’s High-Performance Program over the past twelve years is immeasurable, and is the foundation upon which the Club is able to confidently continue to build for the future. We are very grateful to Simon and appreciate what he has achieved in service to the Club” Downes said.
“After dedicating several years of my life to the role, I have made the difficult decision to step down from the WSL coaching role at Kingborough Lions United FC. This decision has not been made lightly, and I feel it is important to share my reasons openly and honestly.
I am proud of the program we created together – which aimed at building belief in our female athletes; to value their contribution, build confidence and honour their aspirations. Working with such passionate individuals involved in the program over the years has been a privilege. Together we have celebrated successes, shared challenges, worked to improve the program, fought to improve equity, and endeavoured to collaboratively develop powerful and confident young people capable of making their mark on our communities in years to come. The bonds we’ve formed, and the growth we’ve achieved together, are something I will always hold dear.
Over the years, I have poured my heart and soul into this club, aiming to contribute to the growth and success of both the athletes, and the organisation as a whole. During my tenure, especially in the past 3 years, I have experienced challenges, having to absorb additional roles at the club during a time of extreme growth at the club) which have impacted my ability to deliver at the standard I expect of myself for the WSL program. Following the board’s NPL/WSL season review, the club has not indicated a way forward that includes me, at this point in time, and this has resulted in my resignation from the position.
I am immensely thankful for the lessons learned, the memories made, and the opportunity to positively impact the lives of our athletes. Each day, I have been inspired by the dedication and determination of those individuals in the team, and coaching staff, that aspired to be the best they could be and aspire to perform at the standard. Thank you to all of those who have supported me and the program over the last decade”
The Club will be calling for Expressions of Interest for the High-Performance and WSL Head Coach and Assistant Coach positions in the next several days.
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