Garry Hocking says it’s time to “smell the roses” after 38 continuous years in football.

The Leopold coach caught the local football world off guard when the Lions announced last (Thursday) night that the respected mentor would walk away from the position, with two years remaining on his contract at the end of the season.

Hocking, a member of the Australian Football Hall of Fame following a stunning 274-game career with Geelong, has been in charge of Leopold since 2022.

“I thought it was time… 15 years playing… this is my 21st year coaching footy teams,” Hocking told bay 93.9.

“So, I think it’s just time to circle back to family and make them (my) No.1 priority, and also work.

“Slow down a little bit, enjoy life – go and play some golf, do some chores.

“I’ve got a daughter in Adelaide, a young son who’s (playing footy) at ‘Joeys’ (St Joseph’s), and I don’t get the opportunity to watch him.

“And also another daughter (playing netball) at Leopold.

“It’s just an opportunity to slow down a little bit and smell the roses and spend some time with (wife) Mel and the kids.”

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Leopold, which has made consecutive grand final appearances, winning last year’s premiership, will now commence the search for Hocking’s replacement.

“It’s a great club, and it’s (an) attractive coaching position for anyone who’s going to apply,” he said.

“The club’s in really good shape. (They’ve got) a great president, great committee, it’s an awesome playing group in both grades (seniors and reserves).

“The under-18s are really coming along as well.

“It’s a really good place for families.

“There is some sort of disappointment leaving, but I know the time’s right.”

X: @krockfootball