Lucy Gstrein steps down after one season at the helm of Ballan in the Central Highlands Netball League

Gstrein joined Ballan for the 2019 season and stepped into the role as coach in 2021 following former coach Narelle Parkins' decision to leave for Sebastopol in the Ballarat Football Netball League.

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Gstrein said other commitments would be road blocks to her being able to continue next season.

"One of the major decisions for me came from the university side of things, I've had to push uni back a year just to coach for 2021," she said.

"I also got engaged earlier this year so trying to focus on planning my wedding and graduating uni now.

"I'd love to coach again but just got other priorities unfortunately for 2022."

In what was a tough season for all clubs, especially a first-year coach, Gstrein praised all those involved in getting the regular season completed.

"I really enjoyed the season. Yes it was up and down with all of the COVID and lockdwon after lockdown ... everybody, not just Ballan, took it in their stride, they all handled it really well," she said.

"Yes it was stressful as a coach ... but that's what happens and you just can't do anything about it I suppose, you got to just roll with the punches."

Gstrein said she is hoping to continue playing with Ballan in season 2022 if time permits with her commitments.

Ballan netball coordinator Joanne Raffaele thanked Lucy for her time in the role.

"Lucy's been fantastic. She's really taken on board the juniors at the club ... we've had two 16-year-olds playing in our A-grade this year," she said.

"Lucy's taken them on board and really sort of paved the way for them and showed them what senior netball is about, what they've got to look forward to."

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