Capital Football has opted not to renew the contract of Canberra United head coach Heather Garriock beyond the 2019/20 Westfield W-League season.
Garriock, who has been the head coach of Canberra United for the past three seasons, also coached the Canberra United Academy program in 2019 in the lead-up to the current Westfield W-League season.
Capital Football CEO Phil Brown said his organisation believes the time is right for a change, and the decision was made not to renew Heather Garriock’s contract.
Mr Brown paid tribute to the effort Garriock has put into the team.
“Heather has played a significant role in developing young players through the pathway system, including the Canberra United Academy through to Canberra United,” he said.
“We will be indebted to Heather for the role she has played in establishing high-performance standards within the program.”
Heather Garriock said while it is disappointing, it is also the reality of elite sport.
“I am grateful for the opportunity given to me by Capital Football to coach at this level,” Garriock said.
“As somebody who has been involved in elite sport for most of my life, I fully understand the decision that has been made by the organisation.
“I am proud of the role I have played in nurturing young players and developing them, not only as footballers but also as people. I have enjoyed contributing to the lives on-and-off the field of every player who has pulled on a Canberra United jersey.”
Garriock also paid tribute to the supporters who play such a significant role in the football community in Canberra.
“Canberra United’s members and fans have been a highlight of my three seasons coaching at the club,” she said. “They turn McKellar Park into a fortress every home game.”
Heather and her family will continue to reside in Canberra due to the positive environment and the support she has received within the community.
