Ash Wilson will remain as Head Coach of the Club’s Westfield W-League side for the remainder of the season, with Craig Deans making the decision to step aside from the top job.
With two games remaining this season, Wilson will continue to take charge for both this weekend’s clash with Melbourne Victory and next Thursday trip to Adelaide United.
Ash’s first game as Head Coach was the Sunday 5 January clash with Melbourne Victory. She picked up her first win in the 2-0 defeat of Adelaide United at the beginning of February.
An assistant coach to Craig Deans since he took over back in 2015/16, Wilson has been an integral part of the side for the past five seasons.
She said the opportunity to see the season out was one she was determined to take with both hands.
“Being Head Coach for the past six weeks is something I’ve really enjoyed, and I’m looking forward to being able to see out the season with the girls,” Wilson said.
“Having worked so closely with Deansy over the past five seasons, I’ve learnt so much both in that time and across the past six weeks in charge.
“The team is in a good position, and we’re really excited for the next two games against Victory and Adelaide.”
Stepping away from the role as Head Coach, Deans said he had every confidence in Ash Wilson’s ability to continue to lead the girls for the remainder of the season.
“I’ve been away from the girls for more than six weeks now given my commitments with the Hyundai A-League side, and it’s only right that Ash now sees out the season as Head Coach,” Deans said.
“It’s not a decision I’ve taken easily, but I think it’s the right one to allow our Westfield W-League side some consistency and give them every chance to finish the season as strongly as possible.
“I’ve been in charge for five years now and Ash has been at my side the whole time, I’m comfortable with my decision to step aside and I have 100% faith in Ash to continue on with the work that she’s been a big part of over the past five years.”
