Summers announced his decision on Wallis Lake PL's Facebook page late last week, citing family and business commitments as his reasons for leaving.

"I have made the decision to resign from Great Lakes Vikings/Wallis Lake FC to enable more time to spend with my beautiful family and to also focus on my JSFC football academy," he wrote.

"I would like to thank the club for all of its continued support throughout my time there.

"I have given 100% to the club and feel I have left it in a better place than when I arrived.

"After winning the Grand Final with Wallis Lake and receiving 'FMNC Premier League Coach of the Year' it feels like the appropriate time to depart.

"I wish everyone at the club the very best for the future and hope to see you soon."

Summers took on the role of first grade coach at the club at the start of 2019 and was able to translate his considerable experience coaching junior players into success at the top level.

After finishing the regular season in third position, Wallis Lake built momentum through the finals before defeating minor premiers' Port United in a nail-biting grand final.

A week later, Summers was announced Football Mid North Coast's Premier League Coach of the Year.

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Speaking to the Great Lakes Advocate, Summers said his decision was ultimately based on his desire to spend more time with his four children.

"We (Summers and his wife) just thought it'd be an ideal time to pull back and focus on the family while they're still here," he said.

"It's too crucial to miss out on."

He said he made his decision midway through the year but chose not to announce it until the season was over because he didn't want to destabilise the team.

He also said the decision brought with it a certain amount of pressure.

"I realised I only had one year to get the job done," he admitted.

"It put the pressure on."

Asked what he was proudest of during his time in the role, Summers said the efforts of his players and what they were able to achieve over the season outweighed any personal achievements.

"It sounds corny, but I've always been more about the team and the team's achievements," he said.

"The guys were just wonderful. I couldn't have asked for anything more."

While Summers' replacement was yet to be confirmed, he believed whoever took over the role would find themselves in a great position.

He extended his thanks to Wallis Lake and the Great Lakes United Football Club, saying they had been great organisations to be involved in.

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