The Grbevski appointment was announced on Tuesday night, less than 24 hours after the club parted ways with Paul Michlmayr. Club president Steven Jovanovski said Grbevski would bring a wealth of experience to the Lions, currently 11^th on the IPL ladder.

"It was obviously disappointing news the day before, but today's a new day and we'll move forward," Jovanovski told the Mercury.

"Michael has experience in coaching at both senior and youth level. Some of the things that we want to achieve at the club are long term, and getting a true pathway through junior development. That's why we introduced an under-18s team. In years gone by, it was under-16s stepping into youth, so I think there was a gap there. Having a coach who will work with all of the other coaches, from under-18s, under-20s and seconds was important."

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Michlmayr's sudden departure shocked many Illawarra football fans. The side has one draw and four losses in 2021, however the Lions have arguably had the toughest schedule this season.

"I know people will look at it and think it's purely based on results, but together we set some goals at the start of the year, both on and off the field. And some certain goals weren't met," Jovanovski said.

"The club has had a lot of changes and the committee is completely new. We've really started from the bottom and tried to revise the club and the response has been amazing."