After nine years of service to the Essendon Football Club, physical performance manager Justin Crow will depart the Bombers at season’s end.

Both the club and Crow have agreed to mutually part ways, with Crow set to weigh up opportunities both within football and other sports over the coming months.

Crow joined Essendon in early 2011 and has held several positions during his time at the Bombers, with his most recent role as physical performance manager.

“Coming to the end of my ninth season at Essendon, I believe that now is the right time for me to find my next challenge,” Crow said.

“In my time at Essendon I am proud of how we steered this group of players through challenging times, the investment we have made into the women’s football program and also the growth and development of those players who have shared this journey with me.

“I would like to thank the whole club for their support of me over the preceding years.”

General manager of football Dan Richardson thanked Crow for his contribution to the Bombers.

“Justin has had a tremendous impact on our football club, and has led a very dedicated high-performance team during his tenure at the club, particularly through some challenging circumstances,” Richardson said.

“He is a man of integrity and high values, and has made a fantastic contribution to the club in his time here. We wish Justin and his family the very best for their future endeavours.”

The club will commence the search for an appropriate replacement in due course.