Illawarra has confirmed it will part ways with coach Rob Beveridge after four years at the helm.
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In what was described as a "mutual decision" the club will not re-new Beveridge's contract, which expired at the end of the current season.
General manager Mat Campbell thanked Beveridge for his contribution, one that's seen him coach the Hawks in more than 100 games.
“Rob Beveridge has been an integral part of the success of the Illawarra Hawks over the past four years," Campbell said.
"We thank him for everything he has done for the club and wish him nothing but the very best for the future.”
Beveridge took the helm with the club coming out of voluntary administration and took it to semi-final and grand-final appearances in his four seasons in charge.
“I am extremely thankful to the Illawarra Hawks for giving me the opportunity of being part of an incredible club with so much history and tradition," Beveridge said.
"I am proud of what I have achieved in my four seasons with the club and I know that I am leaving the club in a very strong position for the future.
“I sincerely appreciate all of the support of the club, my staff and support staff, the players, the sponsors and of course all of the fans during my time here.
"No matter where my journey may lead to, I will leave this club with very fond memories and will cherish this forever.”
It comes after months of speculation about his future, including strong links to the Kings coaching role Andrew Gaze will vacate at season's end.
His decision to part ways with the club will only ramp up that talk, with the Hawks stating in a release that the search for a new head coach will begin "in due course."
The club has been linked to former Kings coach Shane Heal, though it's believed current assistant Matt Flinn is likely to take the reins.
The club currently has four current players under contract for next season, with Todd Blanchfield, Tim Coenraad, Emmett Naar and Daniel Grida all returning.
Angus Glover, on the comeback trail from injury, is also under contract for the next two seasons.