Tara Murray
Werribee Football Club football manager Stuart Balloch is stepping away from the club to embark on a new career.
Balloch spent 11 years at Avalon Airport Oval across two stints and has been a key plank of the club continued to develop and grow.
Balloch said there were plenty of good memories from his time at the club. He said it was a shame not to be able to show what the club could do in 2020 on the field, due to COVID-19.
“Mark Penaluna gave me an opportunity eleven-plus years ago and wow, what an amazing journey,” he said.
“There were a number of iconic moments – our first night game, the Foxtel Cup, games at the MCG and changing from a full alignment to standalone.
“To be now sitting in arguably the best state league facility is incredible.
“Mark is the first to admit he drives the staff insane. The club would not be where it is without your hard work… I have also worked with an amazing bunch of coaches and developed close working relationships with all of them.
“For now I leave the club in the great hands of [coach] Mark Williams.”
Balloch also paid tribute to the members, sponsors, players and staff who he has formed some close relationships with.
Penaluna said Balloch had been terrific for the club.
“The club is indebted to Stu for the service and dedication he has given the club, in particular during some very trying and challenging times in the last year. Stu has been a great asset to the club and we are sorry to see him leave. The demands of VFL football continue to grow and having four children, Stu and his wife Rebecca have a lot on their plate.”
Penaluna said the club would review the role of football manager and advise their intentions in the coming weeks.”
