Chris Grant has departed his post as the Western Bulldogs’ executive director of football after reportedly having a ‘relationship breakdown’ with senior coach Luke Beveridge.
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The Bulldogs confirmed on Friday afternoon Grant would leave the club in December.
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Seven’s Mitch Cleary reports the relationship between Grant and Beveridge in the past 12 months was ‘tense’ and ‘rocky’.
After playing 341 games for the Dogs across 18 seasons, Grant was appointed to a full-time executive position ahead of the 2016 season.
“I’ve spent over half of my life with the Club as a player and administrator and will cherish the many memories we have created together at the Western Bulldogs,” Grant said in a club statement on Friday.
“While the decision to pause and map out the next stage of my professional career has not been an easy one, I leave knowing the Club is in a great position to succeed and write the next chapter in the amazing history of the red, white and blue.
“I would like to take the opportunity to thank all the players, coaches, and football department staff across all our programs for the trust they have shown in me to manage the football department over the past nine years, forging lifelong friendships and creating some amazing memories together along the way.
“I am looking forward to spending some quality time with Mel, Isabella, Sascha and Ollie over the coming months as we embark on the next stage of our family life together.”
Bulldogs CEO Ameet Bains commended Grant for his contribution to the football club.
“Chris has been an outstanding Bulldogs person for more than three decades, characterised by great integrity, care and compassion for the Club and our people,” Bains said.
“Without exception, Chris has always put the Club first, building a legacy that includes overseeing two premierships and countless accolades during his time as a champion player and progressive leader at the Bulldogs.
“Chris remains one of the best players to ever don the red, white and blue jumper. As an administrator, his ever-calming influence and ability to lead people has guided this Club through both successful and challenging times.
“On behalf of our Club and the entire Bulldogs community, we’re extremely grateful to Chris for everything he has done for us and we wish him well for the next chapter of his journey.”