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'Truly grateful': North Melbourne confirm coach's 'immediate' exit

Australian Associated Press
·2-min read
Rhyce Shaw is pictured coaching North Melbourne during a match in 2020.
North Melbourne have officially confirmed the departure of head coach Rhyce Shaw, a week after it was announced he would take indefinite leave from the club. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

North Melbourne coach Rhyce Shaw will depart the AFL club immediately.

It comes a week after Kangaroos chairman Ben Buckley announced Shaw had taken an indefinite leave of absence from the club.

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A statement on the club’s website said the club and coach would part ways, ‘effective immediately’.

"Since taking on the role as caretaker coach in the middle of the season in 2019 and then senior coach for 2020, Rhyce Shaw has given his all to the club," Buckley said on Thursday.

"He has been an exceptional leader and is a man of the highest integrity.

"His work ethic is unparalleled and we are truly grateful for the time, effort and energy he's put into the role."

Shaw took over from Brad Scott ahead of round 11, 2019, making an immediate impact as North upset Richmond.

The Kangaroos won seven of their last 12 games to end last year, but things never went to plan in 2020.

After winning their first two games, North won just once more as they finished 17th.

Rhyce Shaw ‘immensely grateful’ to Kangaroos

Shaw said he was "immensely grateful" to everyone at North Melbourne, including the supporters, for backing him during a challenging season.

"To the players - I will forever cherish the relationships we built and the stories we shared, and I'm grateful for the courage and belief you demonstrated along the journey," he said.

"I'd also like to extend my thanks to members of the AFL media for the care and respect they've shown during this time.

Rhyce Shaw is pictured celebrating after defeating St Kilda in round one of the 2020 AFL season.
Rhyce Shaw has stepped down as coach of the Kangaroos after taking over the job in mid-2019. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

"Despite the challenges of the past year, my passion for football remains.

"The experiences I've had throughout my career developing young footballers to reach their potential has given me the greatest satisfaction and pride, and I hope to have the opportunity to contribute to this great game again in the future.

"For now, however, my focus is on taking time out, and I would ask that my privacy, and that of my family, continue to be respected at this time."

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