Dogs in a crisis

Up to 13 players from last year are set to leave the club as a big change comes over the Bulldogs.

Feelers were put out late last week regarding either not having a first grade team or not having a reserve grade team as the club looks to rebuild, although any decision is expected to take months.

After announcing Luke Berkrey would be the solo leader the team in 2016, the representative forward is now on the cusp of a move outside Group Nine.

A deal is expected to be finalised by as early as the weekend but either way Berkrey will not coach the team next season.

“I won’t be coaching and I’ve let the club know that but I haven’t put pen to paper yet,” Berkrey said.

“I don't want to go off to early but it is highly likely that I won’t be playing for Coota.

“I’ll be playing outside the group anyway – I wouldn’t play against Coota."

Berkrey claimed his third Les Boyd Medal at the club’s presentation night on Friday and is among a raft of players that look set to finish up with Cootamundra.

Grant Boyd and Aaron Byrne have indicated they will be retiring, Dave Buttriss won’t be travelling back from Canberra again in 2016 while English import Thomas Bush, who linked with the club from Young this year, is another on his way out.

The 22-year-old is excited by getting a fresh start.

“There is a lot going over here that it not looking real good,” Berkrey said.

Trying to compete for sponsorship dollar alongside three other codes in the small town means Cootamundra is feeling the pinch.

Berkrey’s father Wayne has also announced he will be standing down as president.

After three years in the top job, Berkrey senior is looking to take a backseat on the committee.

“Everything is good and I don't not want to be part of Coota, it’s a great club with a great committee, but I have a real busy year coming up with the family,” Wayne said.

He anticipates a new coach will come from within the existing structure.