After 15 years with the Eastern Football League, Manager of Junior Football Rod Cordwell has decided to ‘hang up the boots.’
In his time, Rod has been instrumental in the substantial growth of the leagues junior competition, seeing team numbers increase from 229 teams in 2002 to 342 teams in 2016.
Eastern Football League CEO Phil Murton praised Cordwell’s contribution to the league
“Rod leaves the league with the unanimous respect from those who have worked with him at both league and club level over his 15 years.”
Over that time the leagues junior representative program has also doubled in size, allowing greater opportunity for the growth and development of our brightest young stars. The results over the last few years speak for themselves, along with the wonderful experience gained by the young men, and now women, involved.
Rod’s tenure with the league has seen the introduction of a number of positive initiatives for junior football including the launch of under 8’s, the expansion to four divisions and final fives, and regrading.
“He has made a significant contribution in ensuring the EFL junior football program is a key priority for the league and helps drive participation in our clubs and the game in general
“His contribution to the league is one he should be very proud of”, Murton Said.
A key feature of Rod’s time in the role is the strong relationships he has built with many club personnel over the years along with providing support and advice on a more broader scale with clubs and the leagues administration which Murton feels has furthered the growth of the competition;
The league will commence the search for Rod’s replacement immediately with the position to be advertised in the coming days. He will continue in his role for the immediate future and into the new year to ensure a smooth transition with his replacement.