South Melbourne FC wishes to advise that Assistant Coach Graham Hockless will not be returning for the 2015 NPL Victoria season.
Initially from Hull in England, Hockless played against South Melbourne many times over the last decade in the Victorian Premier League with Richmond, Heidelberg, Green Gully and Port Melbourne. As a player he was regarded as one of the best midfielders in the competition and as a result deservedly won the Gold Medal award for the best player in the VPL in 2008. In addition, he played a leading role in Green Gully’s back-to-back VPL Championships in 2010-2011 and he won the Jimmy Rooney Medal as the Man of the Match for the 2010 Grand Final.
After retiring from playing at the end of 2013, Chris Taylor appointed Hockless as his Assistant Coach ahead of the 2014 National Premier League Victoria season. Hockless’ experience and leadership skills were on show at training sessions and on the sidelines during match days, as he helped Taylor guide the players to the NPL Victoria Championship.
Speaking to smfc.com.au, Graham explained his decision to leave the Club. “My young family and I have made the decision to relocate to Queensland for a variety of reasons. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at South Melbourne FC and would like to thank everyone involved for their efforts in what has been a great year. I’d also like to thank Chris and everyone behind the scenes for giving me the opportunity to work at South Melbourne and wish everyone involved the very best for the future.”
South Melbourne Senior Coach Chris Taylor paid tribute to Hockless.”Graham has been an integral part of our coaching structure, culminating in the Championship in 2014. His presence in the dressing room and on the training ground will be sorely missed, however we wish Graham all the best with his new venture, and thank him for contribution in 2014″
We wish Graham and his family all the very best on their exciting new journey in Queensland