Groves, who was the inaugural coach of the AFLW, informed players and staff of his decision on Monday evening.

He leaves after three years as a crucial component of the Bulldogs’ women’s program to move outside the football industry.

“For a long time, I have been planning for a career in coaching, but following starting a family with my wife Sarah over the past three years, we together made the decision that coaching within the AFL environment, either in a full-time or part-time capacity, was not a career I wanted to continue to pursue over the coming years,” Groves said.

“As someone with a long teaching and sporting background, I made the decision over the past few months that I would like to return to pursuing opportunities that combine these two passions of mine.

“Whilst this was a really tough decision to make, I believe it is also in the best interest of my family. I want to be the best dad and husband I can be."

Groves has left a big impact on the Bulldogs’ AFLW program, taking the team from second last in the first season to a fairy-tale premiership the following year.

The Bulldogs will immediately begin its search for a new AFLW head coach, as the Club continues its preparation for the 2020 season.