Tara Murray
Clay Smith will finish up as Point Cook coach at the end of the Western Football League division 1 season.
The Bulldogs announced on social media that Smith would finish his time as coach when he contract ended.
“Clay has spent the past three seasons at the club, firstly as an assistant to Brett Jacobs in 2022 before taking on the senior coaching role in 2023,” the club said.
“The club rose from second bottom to grand finalists in Clay’s first year in charge at the kennel [with] several prominent new recruits and an exciting crop of youngsters propelling the club up the ladder.
“Season 2024 has been a more difficult assignment with injuries playing a key role in the senior side’s fortunes. However, it has presented opportunities for several current and recent under-18 players to get a taste of senior footy under Smith which bodes well for coming years.
“Popular with club members Clay has left an indelible mark at Saltwater and has been instrumental in shaping the club for the years to come. We sincerely wish Clay, Sarah and his family all the best for the future post this season.”
The Bulldogs are sitting last after 15 rounds with three wins, but have been in a lot of games without getting the points.
The club’s post said with the club in a transition phase with highly talented youngsters that it was timely to review all aspects of the senior football program heading into 2025.
All positions including that of the senior coach are open to review.
Applications for the senior coaching role are open with any inquires to new president David Rouvray at president@pointcookfc.com.au
