Former Gold Coast Suns assistant coach Dean Solomon has confirmed he intends to seek another football job in 2022, following a 12-month sabbatical out of the game.
After nine years at the Suns, Solomon was let go as clubs looked to cut costs as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Solomon said he was looking forward to taking a year off from the game to refresh, opting to start a gym in Kingscliff with fellow former Gold Coast assistant Matt Kennedy.
“It’s hard to say right now but the plan is for 12 months (out of football) and then get back in,” he said on SEN Breakfast.
“I love footy, we love what it provides for people and particularly on the back of what everyone has gone through – I love footy and coaching but I needed 12 months to develop myself.
“I’ll be looking to get back in and try and support a club and move forward to achieve success.”
Solomon’s axing at the Suns came as an immense shock to those in the football industry, with the highly-respected assistant coach let go despite having two years left on his contract.
After receiving plenty of messages after the decision was publicly announced, Solomon said he was overwhelmed with the feedback, saying his connection with staff and players at Gold Coast was the reason why he coaches.
“I haven’t searched out the social media comments, but more so the direct messaging (after I left Gold Coast),” he said.
“That’s why we coach, you just want to see young men and women within the football department blossom and provide a platform for them to be the best they can be.
“I’m really comfortable with 10 years at the Suns, I loved every moment and put my head on the pillow every night knowing I gave everything to that football club and in particular the players to help achieve their dreams.
“While we didn’t achieve any success while I was there – and that’s something that sits within me and burns – but you don’t coach to be liked, you coach to be respected.
“That’s certainly come through in the connection I’ve had after leaving the Suns.”
Solomon confirmed eight clubs had contacted him after being let go by Gold Coast, before he ultimately decided to not coach in 2021.