Just four games into a two-season deal, the club and the first-year manager have mutually agreed to part ways, despite a promising 3-1 start.

It is understood the board met on Thursday night and informed both Rush, 43, and the players of its decision, but no explanation has been made public.

Chairperson Janine Finlay was tight-lipped on details in a sombre press conference on Friday leading into the team’s encounter later in the day with Sydney University Sparks followed by Saturday’s clash with Frankston Lady Blues. 

“There has been growing recognition that the playing group and head coach are finding it difficult to be on the same page with the direction of the team,” Finlay said.

“The head coach and the board have had discussions over the past few weeks and there is concern this could start affecting the on-court performance.

“The desire for [the club]’s continued success, had led to a decision the board feels is in everyone’s best interest.” 

When questioned on a possible player revolt, the group’s mood and the public’s perception of the decision, Finlay continually said “where to from here is next week” and that “the board and Ben have worked really hard to bring everyone together on the same page”.

Rush echoed Finlay’s words.

“Everyone is focused on where to from here, the decision has been made and we have agreed to end the contract and me no longer coach the club,” a dejected Rush said.

“From here the club will move forward and I will move forward in my own directions – that’s where the focus is at.

“[I’ll] focus on my family, other interests, other endeavours [and] stay involved in basketball but I will get some more time with my family, which I’m sure will be appreciated.”

Both Rush and Finlay made a concerted effort not to say anything that they perceived may distract the players from this weekend’s double-header.

“We’ve got a team on the court about to play two games this weekend and they must be focused on that,” Finlay said.

“We’ve had a number of discussions over recent weeks to bring ourselves to this agreed position, where to from here is after the girls get back [with] two wins on the road hopefully.”

Finlay thanked the father-of-two for his work since replacing Reece Potter in January and said the club was working to find someone to support the team in the interim.

It is understood more information around the recruitment of a new coach will be released on Tuesday.

Rush previously coached the Hobart Chargers men’s team for one season in 2015 and has extensive experience coaching in Europe, with the Australian Institute of Sport and been involved in junior development with Basketball Tasmania since 2012.

Before Friday night’s clash, the Torns lost to Hobart Chargers 66-50 in round 1 but have since recorded three home wins over Frankston (86-85), Melbourne Tigers (96-85) and Sandringham Sabres (76-52).