Todd Jones took over from Bobby Bugden as Richmond Rovers' First Grade coach in 2017 after the pair - Jones was assistant coach - won the ANZAC Cup in 2016 - and has served the club with distinction, as he did as a player since 2011.

In his first season as coach, Rovers finished runners-up, two points behind Premiers Byron Bay, and were then beaten in the preliminary final.



In July 2018, Jones' side defeated Lennox Head 5-0 away and wrapped up their 9th premiership with four games to play in the 16-game home and away season. They won the title by 12 points from Byron Bay, with the Magpies going on to avenge their their major semi-final defeat to Rovers with a shock 2-1 win in extra-time in the Cyril Mayo Cup Grand Final.

Last season Jones' Rovers were always a force to be reckoned with and finished equal second, but lost on penalties to Lismore Thistles in the minor semi-final.

In this shortened season, Jones lost a number of his most experienced players and Jones himself has had to play. Rovers have struggled and will finish bottom of the Premier League. Jones' mind to leave was made up many months ago before his lost his father Mark in July.

Todd Jones (left) has returned to the playing field in this shortened season. Photo: Steve Mackney / Football Far North Coast

"I have enjoyed every minute but I am drained. You do not realise how much goes into coaching," Jones said.

"I have 90 minutes left and it's time to hang the whistle up. I have enjoyed my time."

Todd Jones (right) became part of Richmond Rovers in 2011 and became First Grade coach in 2017 and has served the club with distinction.

Jones' final match is aptly against his biggest rivals Byron Bay at Byron Bay Memorial Recreation Ground on Sunday in a match that the home sided needs to win to have any chance of being the champions. Byron beat Rovers 5-3 on Bill Harris Field, East Lismore, last month.