Mernda Football Netball Club has announced that Robert Fletcher’s tenure as its head coach will come to an end this season.
Fletcher joined the Demons in 2019 as its Under 19s coach, guiding them to a preliminary final appearance that year.
He then took on the head coaching role ahead of the COVID-affected 2020 season, replacing now Kilmore coach Paul Derrick.
During his time with Mernda, Fletcher guided the side to the 2023 Heidelberg Golf Club Division 3 Grand Final, ultimately falling a goal short of guiding the club to its first senior premiership since 2012.
The following year he guided them to a Preliminary Final appearance where they fell short of eventual premiers Old Paradians.
A club statement said:
After careful consideration, Mernda Football Netball Club and Senior Coach Robert Fletcher have mutually agreed not to extend his contract beyond the current season.
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Robert for his dedication, leadership, and commitment throughout his time with the club.
Under his guidance, the club & senior group has grown both on and off the field, and his efforts have left a lasting impact on our players, staff, and supporters.
From the training ground to match day, Fletch brought passion, professionalism, and a relentless drive to succeed. We sincerely thank him for his service and the memorable moments he helped create.
Everyone at Mernda wishes Fletch the very best in his future endeavours. He will always be a part of the Mernda Demons family.
Fletch has been the second longest serving coach in our club’s 135-year history.
Thank you, Fletch.
