The Brisbane Lions are close to announcing a replacement for Development Coach Nathan Clarke, who advised the Club late last year of his intentions to pursue a career away from football.

Clarke spent his final days at the Hyundai Centre earlier this week before embarking on the next stage of his professional life.

He departs just four months after guiding the Lions Reserves to two NEAFL premierships.

After playing a total of six games with the Lions from 2000-2002, Clarke returned to the Club at the end of 2009 as coach of the newly formed Hyundai Lions Academy.

He was promoted to the role of Lions Reserves Coach the following year - replacing Craig McRae at the helm – and took a hands-on role in developing the younger Lions in the local NEAFL competition.

In 2012, he famously helped lead the Club to its first State League Premiership in more than a decade. 

Lions GM of Football Operations Dean Warren said Clarke had made an invaluable contribution to the Club over the past three years.

“Nathan took our Reserves side from wooden spooners in 2011, to Cross-Conference Champions in just 12 months – so he exits the game on a high note,” Warren said.

“He’s done a mountain of work in helping shape our young players behind the scenes, and will no doubt take great satisfaction in watching them develop into senior AFL players in years to come.”

“He was a popular member of our coaching staff, and we all wish him well in the future.”

“Lions fans can expect an announcement on who has been appointed as our new Development and Reserves Coach in the coming weeks.”