A Grade Coach Daniel O’Sullivan has made the decision to step down as the club’s head coach after 4 seasons in the role.
A consummate clubman, Daniel informed club President Gerard Arangio of his intentions in the days that followed the sides round 17 win over Kingsway. “I’ve just reached that point where I need to put as much time and energy as I have coaching into some other aspects of my life; the role needs someone that can continue to drive it forward with the commitment it deserves.”
Ascending from assistant coach to Senior Coach ahead of the 2019 season, O’Sullivan has overseen one of the most demanding eras for our football club. Faced with the retirements of players from the 16 & 17 premiership era, the COVID pandemic & the need to regenerate the list, he has managed to navigate the challenges and return the side to finals in 2022.
Leaving the club in such a positive position, Daniel acknowledges “the senior playing group has only just scratched the surface of what it can achieve. With the age & experience profile of the group as it is if they keep driving together, they will be primed for some sustained success, regardless of who comes into the role next.”
Asked what he’d say the best parts of coaching were, O’Sullivan said: “Seeing it all come together: at the end of the day there is huge number of different individuals and personalities, so getting everyone in sync is hugely rewarding. That, and seeing individuals develop and grow.”
O’Sullivan said he had many people to thank for his time at the club. “Neridah & my family for their support but from a club viewpoint: Gerard Arangio, Andrew Edwards, Mick Lee & Chris Brockwell; from the moment I stepped into the chair have always felt hugely supported and backed and that is as critical as anything.”
“Also, to all others associated with the wider club, everyone that has played a role and been supportive. I came to the club as a shy 18-year-old kid in 2005 that barely said 2 words so to have reached this point is something I am hugely grateful for and not something I could have ever imagined back then. I’ve received far more from being a part of TAAFC than I have put in, and it has been worth every moment.”
What is next for Daniel O’Sullivan? “Unsure at this stage; wedding in October and building a house at the moment so that will keep me busy. As for football, no plans or ideas just yet, but I won’t be a stranger to Billy.”