Long-serving Otago Cricket Association chief executive Mike Coggan has resigned.
Coggan, who declined an interview request, will step down later this year.
He has been in the role since 2015, having taken over from the late Ross Dykes.
In a press release, Coggan said he was fortunate to have been part of such a proud organisation.
“It has been an amazing journey, working with so many wonderful people and seeing significant growth across our districts, as well as within our performance and talent environments,’’ he said.
“With the depth of male and female playing talent, and the quality of our coaching staff, I genuinely believe Otago cricket is in a strong position and set for an exciting future.
“But all good things must come to an end. I will always hold Otago cricket dear to my heart.’’
‘‘As a sports organisation, we have always strived to be better, and the opportunity is now there for someone new to bring fresh innovation and creativity, ensuring Otago cricket continues to thrive as a high-quality major association.”
Otago Cricket Association chairman Russell Mawhinney said in a press release Coggan had been a steady hand who had a strong focus on ensuring the association was financially sustainable.
‘‘Mike has been a great steward,” Mawhinney said.
“Through his strong work ethic, disciplined financial management and clear strategic focus, Mike has placed the organisation in a sustainable financial position today.
“He is shifting to Christchurch later this year for family reasons, and he goes with our best wishes.
‘‘It will be a big loss, but I guess we always knew this day would come.”
Mawhinney said Coggan’s leadership extended beyond the finances.
He had an oversight of the professional game, including the appointment of professional coaches, player recruitment and the development of high-performance pathways and community cricket programmes.
“The business of cricket is complex. Mike has always kept on top of what is happening,’’ Mawhinney said.
‘‘He has shown professionalism and commitment to doing what is best for cricket down south.
‘‘It is not always easy in a role like that - everyone out there loves the game, so there will be differences of opinion here and there. Mike has dealt with those fairly,” Mawhinney said.
Coggan’s legacy is complex.
He has overseen the continued development of the University Oval and worked tirelessly to help establish a permanent winter training facility in the city, which is under construction at Logan Park.
He must have personally planted hundreds of shrubs around the embankment. He poured his heart into the place in that way.
But his leadership style was not without its critics.
Some felt he was too focused on finances and the high staff turnover was an indictment of his management style.
Coggan is expected to finish up on November 20.
The Otago Cricket Association will begin the process of finding a replacement ‘‘in the near future’’.
