After leading the Tigers to their first grand final since 2001, Aughton relinquished the top job and admitted the decision was made halfway through the season.

“I felt like I had lost a bit of passion to be coaching, playing and managing everything that comes with being the A grade netball coach of an O and M club,” Aughton said.

“I honestly believe if you’re not in it 100 per cent, you’re doing yourself and your players a disservice.

“I’m so lucky to have had a group of girls that gave that energy every time I stepped out to play or train.

“It was a really long season for me, not just because we went through to the last game, but mentally I was really fatigued.

“Having coached my fifth season, there wasn’t going to be a great deal I could offer to the girls tactically.

“Sometimes you just need a breath of fresh air, a new voice and something the girls can get excited for.”

Aughton ruled out a switch to Hume league outfit Howlong, where her partner and 2018 Azzi Medallist Steve Jolliffe plays.

“I’m not committing to any club, I’ll probably play a few games with Albury and possibly qualify (for finals) with them,” she said.

“I also want to return the favour to my sister, Bridget, who came up and played with us and was playing with Torquay Tigers.

“My family is from down that way and I’ll be able to take my daughter there those weekends when Steve’s not playing and have a bit more time together.”