2016 coach Dave Antill led the squad to a top-four finish (third), and a preliminary final berth.

Tolland’s most recent efforts under Antill were a considerable improvement on mediocre results attained under the stewardship of a different coach in 2015.

But the season ended in bitter disappointment; Tolland marginally lost to Cootamundra in the preliminary final at the Strikers’ home-ground.

"It was disappointing to lose to Cootamundra the way we did,” he said.

“I’ve spoken to most core players and I’m confident they’ll be back.

“A lot of them would like to make the next step, and play the grand final.”

Antill also coached Kooringal High’s successful Shipard Shield team in 2016, breaking new ground for the schoolgirls’ team.

This year, he has decided to take a step back.

“I’m still going to be involved in senior soccer, I want to be there to help on Sunday,” he said.

“I just don’t want the daily grind of coaching.”

Tolland has advertised for a new coach, applications close in late November and a decision will be reached by Christmas.