By MARK CASHMAN

The ramifications from the Shute Shield participation agreement are already starting to kick in with likeable West Harbour coach Mark Gudmunson announcing that he is stepping down.

Gudmunson, who steered the Pirates through the past three difficult seasons at Concord, said work commitments and the increasing demands of coaching at Shute Shield level as the reason he was stepping away from the role.

The participation agreement requires that the head coach do the job on a full-time basis.

But significantly Gudmunson said that he would still be heavily involved at the club as they continue their rebuild.

“I will not be going anywhere,” Gudmunson told Rugby News. “I am still keen to play a role in West Harbour continuing to improve.

“I truly believe and the playing group know where we should be in terms of position on the table and believe that a new head coach will come in and achieve those results.

“When the new head coach is announced I am very keen to sit dow and see how I can play a role in his vision for the club.

“I have been involved with the club since 1996 and can’t wait to see what the future holds for us.”

Gudmunson is one of the Shute Shield’s good guys, always available for a chat and not afraid to address the big issues that the game is facing.

“While COVID has bot been friendly over the past two seasons, I have been honoured to lead this club through a really tough period and I know that I am leaving the club in a better place than when I arrived,” Gudmunson added.

“But increasing work commitments mean that I am unable to put in the hours that the club and the playing group deserve.

“With new facilities on track for the 2022 season, a strong playing group that now believe in their ability as well as great support staff, exciting times are ahead and I can’t wait to do my part in whatever way that look.”

New Waratahs coach Darren Coleman led a choir of well wishes: “Great shift ‘Guddo’ – what a good Wests and rugby man.”

Former West coach Joe Barakat said: “Well done ‘Guddo’. A great job keeping the club together and successful since taking over. A true Pirate.”