Robert Hyde has resigned as the coach of Carlton’s VFL affiliate side, the Northern Blues, due to time constraints.
 
“Time constraints in my role as a school principal have not allowed me to undertake my coaching duties in the manner that I believe is necessary at this level,” Hyde said today.
 
“I certainly appreciate the opportunity given to me by the Northern Blues and Carlton Football Clubs to once again be involved in football at an elite level, and in particular to continue the important development role with the younger players. I will continue to follow the progress of the team and the individual players closely,” Hyde added.
 
Hyde advised the Northern Blues players of his decision at training this evening.
 
Carlton General Manager Football Operations, Andrew McKay said he understood the reasons for his decision.
 
“We certainly appreciate the great work Robert has done with the Northern Blues and the Carlton players who have played with the Northern Blues in 2012. We have been very fortunate to have a person of great knowledge and integrity involved with our affiliate team and individual players and we respect his decision.”
 
Northern Blues General Manager Garry O’Sullivan said the Club had been very fortunate to have Robert work with them in 2012.
 
“Robert Hyde is an outstanding person who has a wonderful knowledge of the game and has provided tremendous guidance for the Northern Blues in his time as our senior coach,” O’Sullivan said.
 
“He has been outstanding in the manner in which he has continued to develop the individuals and the team and his time at the Northern Blues has further enhanced his reputation in the football world. We are certainly disappointed that he will not be continuing in the role and wish him the best for the future,” O’Sullivan added.
 
Carlton’s Development and Academy Manager, Darren Harris will take over as coach of the Northern Blues for the remainder of the 2012 season, having coached Carlton’s VFL affiliate team in 2011.