SWFL 2023: Two-time SWFL premiership coach Matt Jamieson reveals why he joined Busselton as league boss

Days after resigning from his position as Augusta-Margaret River’s league coach, Busselton confirmed on Sunday that Matt Jamieson had been appointed as their new league boss. Jamieson, who received life membership with the Hawks early last month, guided Augusta-Margaret River to two league premierships and five finals campaigns during his tenure. While there has been plenty of speculation on social media surrounding the announcement, Jamieson outlined the rationale behind his decision — along with reaffirming positive feelings for Augusta-Margaret River moving forward. Q — Can you describe how things finished up at Augusta-Margaret River? A — “I think Margs were on another page in terms of where they wanted to go for next year. I was obviously keen to still commit and finish my final year at the Hawks. “But at the end of the day, we both couldn’t come to the right arrangement, I suppose, to do that. Therefore, I felt the best thing for me to do personally, along with for the club, would be to resign.” Q — You’ve mentioned to me a number of times even while at the Hawks, that you’ll always have pleasant memories at Gloucester Park, given so many lifelong friends are there? A — “Yeah, 100 per cent. “It was hard to even make the decision to resign. I had to let a lot of good people that I’ve met along my journey there know of the decision. “Obviously for some, this was pretty hard to take. And for others, it might mean that they need a change. I’ll forever have great memories there and I’m proud of what I’ve done.” Q — You must be heartened Busselton showed interest so quickly, along with joining another strong club? A — “To receive a call about having a conversation (about coaching Busselton next year) was something I wasn’t expecting — or for it to go beyond that. “It’s definitely a challenge I am looking forward to. It’s really exciting. Busselton’s got a good list and I’ll be looking to retain as much of it as I can. “Hopefully we can also continue to develop and grow what we’ve got underneath. “Timing is everything — they made the call to have a conversation and I’m really happy how it’s all played out now.” Q — Like Augusta-Margaret River, Busselton’s very much a family-friendly club. Your family is always by your side at games, so I imagine this is another positive? A — “This (family environment) also played a part in making such a big decision. “A lot of people probably look at it and think ‘that’s the arch enemy, how could he do that’ but for me, I love coaching. And Busselton’s approach was good. “There’s a lot of guys there who have young families and I’ve got a young family. So we’re hoping it’ll be a good fit for us and for Busselton.” Q — The dust hasn’t fully settled yet, but do you have an idea on when the formalities of your role will start? A — “I’ll make sure to contact every player on our list, along with everyone who has played or been involved with senior footy at our club over the past 12 months. “We’ll also contact players who’ve gone on to other ventures and see where they’re at.”