By Todd Whelan<\/p>\n
Dual Premiership Coach Brian Wheelahan’s four season reign at the helm of the Darley Cricket Club will cease at the end of the current 2022\/23 season.<\/p>\n
The 43-year-old told key officials and players ahead of a recent home game, citing a number of reasons behind his surprise decision.<\/p>\n
“I’m just cooked,” Wheelahan said.<\/p>\n
“I’ve given everything I can to the job, and am one who likes to give it 100%, but I couldn’t guarantee that type of commitment beyond this season,”<\/p>\n
“It wouldn’t be fair on the club if I went around again,” he said.<\/p>\n
According to Wheelahan, who boasts an impressive 47 wins and eight draws from his 69 BCA games in charge of the Lions, his move is likely to have a timely impact on the players.<\/p>\n
“It will be refreshing for the playing group to have a fresh face with a new set of ideas,” he said.<\/p>\n
“A perfect opportunity to create a new beginning for themselves.”<\/p>\n
Wheelahan went on to voice warm sentiments of gratitude toward both senior Captains during his time.<\/p>\n
“Ben Longhurst and Brad Barnes have always been in my corner and provided enormous support,” he said.<\/p>\n
“I’m indebted to those boys in particular for their friendships advice and encouragement.” <\/p>\n
While Wheelahan had the players in the forefront of mind upon the announcement, the soon-to-be free weekend Dad had one eye focussed toward the future.<\/p>\n
“My family has been great,” he said.<\/p>\n
“This decision allows me more time to spend at home, an opportunity to payback their support and understanding which they’ve shown me. It’s all a bit of a relief to be honest.”<\/p>\n
Wheelahan’s exit will surely ‘play out’ without regret, rather appreciation of a memorable time while it lasted.<\/p>\n
“It’s been an amazing ride having won back-to-back flags, a Runners Up and challenging for another as we speak,” a proud Wheelahan said.<\/p>\n
“I’ve been extremely proud of our consistency which separates you as an identity within the competition on the back of a strengthening family-like culture. We turned over 25 plus first eleven players during my time and I\u2019ve have had the privilege watching kids develop into young men.” he said.<\/p>\n
As the next candidate(s) rub their hands together amid potential thoughts and contemplation, Wheelahan assures the incumbent will be walking into something pretty special.<\/p>\n
“Darley’s one brilliant, inclusive club with lots of depth, and progressive upside,” he said.<\/p>\n
Lions Club President Tim Gallagher was grateful for Wheelahan’s contribution in the senior role that may claim a third flag as his four-year tenure comes to an end.<\/p>\n
“I know I speak on behalf of everyone at the Darley Cricket Club when I say thank you ‘Wheels’ for all that you’ve done and that we wish you and your family all the very best for the future. Once a Lion, always a Lion.” Gallagher said.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
By Todd Whelan Dual Premiership Coach Brian Wheelahan’s four season reign at the helm of the Darley Cricket Club will cease at the end of the current 2022\/23 season. The 43-year-old told key officials and players ahead of a recent home game, citing a number of reasons behind his surprise decision. “I’m just cooked,” Wheelahan […]<\/p>\n