Parrots appoint one of their own to top coaching job

IF Leongatha was looking for experience from its next senior coach, they needed to look no further than their own ranks to find a person who has played in every one of their 10 grand finals-in-a-row Cade Maskell.

And that’s the way they have gone, announcing the appointment of Maskell on Friday.

Here’s what the club posted online on Friday evening:

“The Leongatha Football Netball Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Cade Maskell as senior coach for the upcoming season.

“Cade brings a wealth of experience, leadership and success at the highest level of Gippsland League football, having built an outstanding playing career highlighted by team success and individual accolades.

“These include:

• Five-time premiership player

• Past club captain and assistant coach

• Stan Aitkin Medallist

• AFL Victoria Medallist

• Best and Fairest winner

• Seven-time Gippsland League Team of the Year representative

• Multiple interleague representative, including captaining the Gippsland League interleague team.

“His understanding of the game, proven leadership and strong connection to the local football community make him an exciting appointment for the club moving forward.

“We look forward to seeing Cade lead our playing group, continue to develop our emerging young talent and help our players reach their full potential, both individually and as a team.

“Please join us in congratulating Cade Maskell on his appointment.”

The decision to appoint Maskell comes at a time of transition for the Leongatha Parrots following the resignation of three-time premiership coach Trent McMicking and the departure of a number of players in recent weeks, including Jack Hume to Tallin Brill an emerging Korumburra-Bena Giants, who have been very active in the off-season.

There’s also talk that a number of the very highest profile Parrots might be considering flying the coop.

So, the appointment of Maskell comes at a potentially pivotal time.

The club has also reappointed Ben Willis as playing development coach.