After only one season at the helm, Ball announced the decision to the playing group at training last night.

The Hoppers have endured a nightmare season and are on a 21-match losing streak stretching back to round 15 last year.

Despite wanting to coach again next year, Hopper officials informed Ball a change of direction was in the best interests of the club.

“I wanted to do it again next year, the players have been great and it’s a great place,” Ball said.

“But I’m disappointed in some people who are meant to be leading the club and how they handle things.

“I put a proposal to the club months ago about a plan for the next two seasons and they agreed to go ahead.

“They then went quiet all of a sudden and I didn’t hear back from them for weeks and found out they were talking to other candidates.

“I don’t have a problem with that but I do have a problem with the dishonesty about it.

“I had recruits lined up for next season and would have kept the playing group we have now — so we had a great opportunity to improve.

“Now the club is starting all over again — nobody has re-signed, there is no coach and they haven’t spoken to the current players.”

Ball said he had enjoyed the challenge of coaching and didn’t rule out doing so elsewhere.

“I really loved coaching this year and will sit back now and see what doors open,” he said.

Ball wished his successor well.

“I thought we were competitive and earned respect in the majority of our games this season,” he said.

“Three or four quality recruits would make a world of difference.

“There are some great people at Walla with very big and loyal hearts.

“I wish the club all the best and hope that they get the leadership that is needed to help turn the club around both on and off the field.”