Former Shepparton United coach Lewis Coyle has opted for some southern comfort on the coaching front.
The ex-Blue has changed his stripes for that of black and white origin, named as Rob Harmeston’s successor for Shepparton South’s 2024 campaign with Luke Viney as assistant.
It is new territory for Coyle, a previous coach of United and Tatura, who explained his reasoning behind accepting the job.
“I wanted a new challenge, that was obviously what I had in my plans for this season and South was the perfect option for me,” Coyle said.
“I got contacted by various teams, but South was the best option going forward and my ultimate goal is to hopefully add a league and grand final win to that.
“The squad at the moment has got all the signs of going out and winning that, so I’m happy to be at South for the next challenge.”
Coyle replaces Harmeston, who moves to Goulburn Valley Suns as Craig Carley’s understudy.
The Londoner leaves after three years at the helm, opening the door for the winds of change to blow through in the form of fellow Englishmen Coyle and Viney.
“For me, that’s another massive challenge to come in after Rob’s had so much success with South,” Coyle said.
“The challenge is there to keep it ongoing, the pressure’s on to compete with Rob with what he did the last three seasons because he’s obviously done an amazing job.
“To compete with Rob, I’ve got to go and match him and go one step further.”
As for Viney, South became a second home by chance.
The imposing centre-half originally entered the country to play cricket for Numurkah, finding himself in South colours after an invitation from Harmeston.
He became a mainstay at the back in 2023, now enlisting himself as Coyle’s right hand man while also taking control of the reserves team.
“I’ve had a couple of meetings with Luke, we’re on the same page with how we want to play next season,” Coyle said.
“Both of us want the right thing for South to play football the right way, so I’m hoping it can be a success on and off the field.”
The club claimed silverware in 2023 beating Tatura 7-2 in the league cup final, but was second to the post behind the Ibises in the league and grand final.
Change could be exactly what the doctor ordered for South.
No side is exempt from movement and the Southerners will be without some of its key personnel next season.
Jake Rumble and Sean Grant are confirmed outs to GV Suns, but Coyle has expressed a desire to replace and build on the club’s existing base.
“I’m hoping to keep the majority of the squad, but obviously we’re always on the lookout to strengthen the squad because we’ve lost some important players,” he said.
“If you’re in a cup competition, the league and finals, you’re going to get injuries, suspensions, you need a big squad to deal with that side of things.
“South has got a great foundation to add a couple of players and replace players and then it will kick us onto better things hopefully this season.”