North Launceston fans are being assured of business as usual despite the uncertainty surrounding coach Tom Couch’s role with the Simon Black Academy.
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Club president Thane Brady said he expected Couch’s commitment to the State League leaders to be unaffected by the collapse of Careers Australia, which is the education provider for the academy.
“From a football club point of view it is highly unlikely there will be any disruption,” Brady said.
“Tom will definitely still be North Launceston coach. He is committed to finish the job he started. He has fitted in well with the club and loves Tasmania.
“It’s a speed hump but not a major drama and we can work through it.”
Brady explained that Couch, who is in the first year of a two-year contract, works one day a week for North and four for the academy.
The former Melbourne AFL player, who is joint leader in the State League player of the season standings, is currently visiting family in Victoria.
“He is just hopeful the program can pick back up because he has the students' wellbeing at the forefront of his mind. He is more worried about them than himself.”
Uncertainty around the academy roles of Couch, Glenorchy coach Aaron Cornelius and state business development manager Sam Siggins followed news that Careers Australia had been placed into voluntary administration. “It is our understanding that the Simon Black Academy is on hold for two weeks,” Brady said.