Malaxos steps down as Sharks coach
East Fremantle coach Steve Malaxos has resigned from the role after four years seasons at the helm.
It is understood the 1984 Sandover medallist made the decision yesterday after a 48-point loss to Subiaco at the weekend, the Sharks’ fifth loss from their first 10 games.
Assistant coach Brad Dodd has been named interim head coach and will lead the side against Swan Districts at ATOM Stadium on Sunday.
A statement from the club said Malaxos met with president Mark Stewart and chief executive Todd Shimmon this morning, with his resignation ratified by the board this afternoon.
The West understands Malaxos opted to stand down after a difference of opinion with senior members of the playing group. Some issues were believed to have been simmering behind the scenes.
There had been little indication of a problem at the club but details of Malaxos' departure quickly leaked from the port this morning.
His exit follows the decision last week by senior Sharks midfielder Bradd Dalziell to retire.
Malaxos took over as coach in 2011 after taking the Sharks’ colts side to a premiership the previous year.
He led the club to a grand final appearance in 2012 and a preliminary final last year, but has struggled to find consistency over his four seasons.
Malaxos played 374 league matches, including 138 for East Fremantle between 1991-1998, including the 1992 and 1994 premierships.
