Higgins has coached the Bushies for the past three seasons, with the highlight coming in 2016 when they reached the grand final.

“I believe it is a position of privilege and it is a role that I have worked towards for a number of years,” he said.

I would like to thank the Murray Bushrangers and AFL Victoria for the opportunity and I look forward to seeing Murray Bushrangers players past and present continue as talented footballers to achieve their full potential in footy and also as young men within their communities.”

A replacement for Higgins is expected to be appointed within weeks.

“Leon followed an outstanding 11-year AFL career by coaching within our region and throughout his time has remained committed to coaching within the talent pathway through the TAC Cup and National Championships at under 16 and under 18 level,” Murray Bushrangers talent manager Mick Wilson said