Wilson confirmed yesterday he had declined an invitation from Hawk president Pat Flynn to apply for the position vacated by John McNamara at the end of the Ovens and Murray Football League’s home and away season.

“Pat asked me if I wanted to apply, but my personal view is that the club may be better off trying to attract someone from outside the club,” Wilson said.

“Laurie Burt was really the last person to come in from outside and I think it wouldn’t be a bad idea to take a change in direction.

“All the coaches have done a good job over the years, it’s just a personal view that the time could be right for something different.”

Wangaratta Rovers is the only club yet to finalise their coach for next season with Albury appointing Paul Spargo and Wodonga Raiders signing Corey Lambert in the past six weeks.

Flynn said the Hawks wouldn’t be rushed into a decision.

“We are in no hurry,” Flynn said.

“The club has advertised and will weigh up all options.”

Wilson, who has fielded coaching offers from interstate, is presently coaching Ovens and King league powerhouse Tarrawingee with the Bulldogs to play Whorouly or Bright in next weekend’s grand final.

It will be the club’s first appearance in a grand final since it defeated Moyhu by 71 points in the 1990 decider.

Wangaratta Rovers stalwart Mick Caruso has also been linked to the Hawks top position at the W.J. Findlay Oval.

Tony Pasquali was the last on-field leader with the Hawks and took the club into their most recent grand final against North Albury in 2002.

Despite starting among the favourites for this year’s premiership, Wangaratta Rovers finished a disappointing seventh on the ladder with only eight wins.