The Werribee Football Club advises that Football Manager Stu Balloch is leaving the club. Stu is pursuing a new career path after 11 years at Avalon Airport Oval in two stints.

 CEO Mark Penaluna paid tribute to the outgoing Football Manager:

“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.”

Stu reflected on his decade-plus at the club.

“Mark Penaluna gave me an opportunity eleven-plus years ago and wow, what an amazing journey. 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. He is genuine and driven for this great club to succeed. The club would not be where it is without your hard work and it is an absolute credit to yourself and no doubt the support you get from Narelle and the family.

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 Mark Williams. ‘Choco’ and I have worked very closely across the last two years, we talk pretty much every day and I have learnt so much. His passion and desire for success is matched by no-one else I have ever met. It’s a shame we could not show the industry the team we put together for 2020. I know that you have the player and staff support for 2021. Success is not too far away.

Finally, to all the members, sponsors, players and staff of whom there are too many to mention, I will hold dear the relationships that I have built over my time at the club and I wish all involved the ultimate success for the upcoming season as part of an exciting new expanded competition. It would give me no end of pleasure to see us lift the inaugural cup."

Mark Penaluna said “Stu has been a terrific help to me personally and everyone at the club wishes him the best for the future. As a club, we will review the role of Football Manager and advise our intentions in the coming weeks.”