Jaliens, 39, came out of retirement this season to play with the Bears in the Northern NSW NPL but he has featured in the league just twice.

A pre-season foot injury and his choice not to play Saturdays because of his religious beliefs meant he has watched on until recently.

However, the former Weston technical director filled in as coach when Steve Piggott was suspended for three games for referee abuse.

The Bears announced on June 29 that Piggott would not return as coach in 2019 despite him having another year remaining on his deal.

Weston announced late Monday that Jaliens, who holds a UEFA A licence, had agreed to take over. Club president Rod Henderson said Jaliens would not play on next year. Earlier Monday, he said it was time for new blood to come into the coaching ranks.

“We are looking for the right person who fits the young and strong playing group we have and who can take it to the next level for us," Henderson said.

Weston finished last in 2016 under Trevor Morris and again under Piggott in 2017. They are second-last after 16 rounds this year.

Henderson said Weston had no complaints about Piggott’s work and the club fully supported him during his suspension. 

“He took on what was a difficult job and he’s done well for us, but we’re ready to go to the next phase of where we want to take the club and we thought tweaking that slightly was the best thing for us,” he said.

He was confident of Weston retaining their better young players, many of whom Piggott brought to the club.