Michael Searl will take the reins again next Ballarat Football Netball League season, having guided Sebastopol through two COVID-compromised years.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Searl first stepped into the coaching role at the end of 2019 but only got the chance to be sideline this year, guiding the Burra to fourth in his first "proper" home-and-away season in charge.
IN OTHER NEWS:
It was only the second time that Sebastopol had qualified for finals in 21 years.
Sebastopol president Darren Hammill said the club was thrilled Searl extended his tenure.
"He's been great for the club, and we had no hesitation offering him the chance to go around again next year," he said.
"Gladly, he had no hesitation extending (his tenure)."
A two-time North Ballarat VFL premiership player, Searl joined Sebastopol after a successful stint at Springbank, where he was a premiership player and coach.
It was a difficult first competitive season in charge for the Burra's leader, who once had nearly half his senior list unavailable through injury.
Captain Tony Lockyer was also ruled out for the year after requiring surgery to re-attach his pectoral muscle to the bone.
Searl is the latest in a growing list of coaches who have extended their stays. Ballarat's Joe Carmody and Sunbury's Travis Hodgson penned two-season extensions, while Bacchus Marsh's Tom German and Melton's Aaron Tymms have committed to another year.
Lake Wendouree and Darley will enter next season under new coaches.
If you are seeing this message you are a loyal digital subscriber to The Courier, as we made this story available only to subscribers. Thank you very much for your support and allowing us to continue telling Ballarat's story. We appreciate your support of journalism in our great city.