The Blueys surprised many South Coast fans when they announced the experienced mentor's departure on Sunday, after six seasons at the helm of the club's Illawarra Premier League team.

Willis's record included taking Tarrawanna to back-to-back finals in 2019 and 2020, with the side gaining a reputation for being competitive against the league's powerhouse sides. The Blueys also remained in the hunt for this year's top five when the season was called off early due to COVID.

After becoming the club's longest-serving coach, Willis believes the "timing was right" for his departure.

"A couple of members wanted a change, and I've been thinking about it as well. These last couple of years have been disruptive, plus I've got some family commitments back home in England. It's probably come at the right time," Willis said.

"I need a rest and to recharge the batteries. But will I return to coaching? You never say never, do you?"

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Willis's announcement continues a busy few weeks off the field for the IPL, with coaches Oli Vrtkovski, Dan McGoldrick and George Antoniou all parting ways with their respective clubs. Billy Tsovolos will replace Vrtkovski at Wollongong United and Ian Connelly becomes Woonona's head coach, while Olympic are yet to announce their new mentor.

However, the Willis departure will arguably have the greatest impact, with the fielding one of the youngest IPL teams in 2021.

Willis's proudest achievement during his six-year stint was helping to develop young talent, despite having financial restraints.

"With the resources and money situation, since I've been there the club has gone forward every year in every aspect. We've had minimal money compared to some other clubs, but we've always been competitive and we've managed to bring some good young lads in," he said.

"When you can't afford expensive players and experienced players, the young kids have got to play to get experience. We've developed them and they've done quite well. Unfortunately these last years have been a bit of a disaster in one way, but last year we brought a lot of young guys into the squad and they did well which proves they can do it. I'm pleased with what we've done as a coaching staff and a club itself.

"People might say 'you've not won anything', but we've always been there or thereabouts. You look at clubs in the English Premier League, they're never going to win the league, but they're always there and thereabouts in the fourth and fifth spot. You've got to be realistic about these things, but you've always got the chance like Leicester did winning it. You get the breaks, you get things going for you. And that's football."

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Blueys lower grade coaches Greg Smart and Jason Long have also followed Willis out the door, with the duo taking the reins of Oak Flats Falcons' District League side. Tarrawanna are expected to announce their replacements in the coming week.

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