Joe Stirling steps-down as Norwich Knights coach
Joe Stirling has today (Monday, 30 December) announced that he will be stepping down as Head Coach of England Korfball Premier Division side, Norwich Knights.
Knights are currently in 4th position in the league with four wins from six matches.
Stirling won Silver at the England Korfball Grand Finals 2017 and led his team to the semi-final stage of the IKF Europa Shield in 2018. Joe also held a number of coaching positions within our National squads over the last few years and travelled to numerous tournaments overseas.
Stirling’s statement in full:
“After 7 years as head coach of Norwich Knights I am stepping down with immediate effect. My priorities in life have changed and I cannot commit to the time needed, however, I must stress what an honour it has been coaching Knights.
“There have been some incredible highlights: from Knight’s first ever appearance at the playoffs, to reaching the final at the K2, successive grand final weekends at the Copper Box Arena and reaching the semi final in the Europa Shield.
“I am very proud to have seen so many players progress through to represent their country on the biggest stage. Looking at the juniors I am sure there will be many more.
“Many thanks to chairman Ross Lenton for supporting me and giving me the opportunity to be in this privileged role. Many thanks to all those that have supported in the background to make things run smoothly and of course many many thanks to all the players that turned up and always gave me their best. Being nominated as Norfolk Sports Coach of the Year highlights how incredible the group I got to work with truly are.
“I look forward to watching you all play in the future and marching Knights on to the next level.”
Norwich Knight’s chairman, Ross Lenton, said that Joe Stirling has helped transform the club both on and off the pitch.
“Joe’s passion and commitment to the club has been incredible, and thanks to his hard work as head coach over the last 7 years Knights is now consistently one of the top 4 teams in England.
“I would like to thank Joe personally, and also ensure him that we will finish this season strong!”
Norwich Knights and England International, Charlie Vogwill will be taking on the role of player/coach on an interim basis. Commenting on the news Vogwill said: