EDENHOPE-APSLEY is searching for a new coach after Brian 'Cobber' Cassidy announced he would not be returning to the role for the 2013 Horsham District Football League season.
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President Laurie Close said Cassidy announced his intentions earlier this month and the club had been working closely with him to create a succession plan.
"This hasn't come as a surprise to the club, we've been in discussions for months," Mr Close said.
"Cobber and I have a good working relationship and he's been one of the best coaches I've worked with.
"He has been primarily responsible for bringing our current group together by concentrating on bringing former players back to the club.
"It is the reality of his situation, so he's been able to relate to players on that level.
"We couldn't be happier with the work he has done."
Edenhope-Apsley lured Cassidy out of retirement to lead the club for the past two seasons.
He had started his senior coaching career with Edenhope 31 years earlier, following an illustrious playing career with the club that saw him win four club and three league best and fairest awards.
Cassidy said he was looking forward to a break after a long coaching career in the Wimmera.
"The time's come for me and this is definitely it," he said.
"The most pleasing thing for me is that I'm leaving the club in a better position than it was when I came back."
Cassidy has led the Saints to their first senior football finals campaign since joining the Horsham District league in 2007 this season.
The side has lost two of its past three games but has already secured the minor premiership.
Cassidy announced his decision now so the club could focus on its finals campaign.
"We're still hell bent on winning the flag and think we can," he said.
Mr Close said the club would wait until the season was over to appoint a new coach.
