BEN Carmichael will go it alone as Drysdale coach beyond 2023, with the Bellarine League club confirming Tom Ruggles will step down from the shared role at the end of the season.
The Hawks took to social media tonight (Thursday) to confirm Carmichael has signed a two-year contract extension while also revealing Ruggles will pull the pin after two years in the role.
President David Walder said “the demands of his new business” led the former Geelong defender to his decision.
However, Ruggles will continue as a player.
“The club is extremely grateful to Tom for his contribution since his return to Drysdale, in leading the club back to finals, and for his input into developing and improving our young list,” Walder said.
“The football club is very excited to have Ben continuing the outstanding job he has done since the start of 2022, and look forward to continuing the journey for the next two seasons.”
After finishing inside the top five for the first time in nine years and reaching a preliminary final, where it was beaten by eventual premier Barwon Heads, in 2022, Drysdale is well-placed to challenge for its first flag since 2010.
The Hawks enter the second half of the season third on the ladder with six wins, a draw against Anglesea, and two losses.
They face Portarlington at Ron Evans Oval this Saturday.
Twitter: @krockfootball
