Clifford’s will retire on October 31 bringing to an end 27 years of service with the organisation.

He has had a distinguished career, working tirelessly on behalf of the Hunter Academy of Sport with national and state sporting bodies, local associations, schools and thousands of talented athletes.

Since the organisation’s inception in 1988, Clifford has been instrumental in growing the Hunter Academy of Sport to become the largest and arguably, most successful regional sports academy in Australia. 

Clifford listed the establishment of the annual Festival of Sport, the Greater Scholarship Program for “potential Olympians” and the delivery of a diverse group of talent development programs providing a wide range of opportunities for 600 talented young sports people annually as the highlights of his career. 

He said that while it will be difficult to leave, he is confident the timing is right to step aside and let someone new take the reins. 

“Twenty-seven years is a long time - it’s definitely time for someone younger to step in and take the academy into the future,” he said. 

“It’s going to be hard not coming into the office every day, but I plan to busy myself with all the jobs I haven’t had a chance to get to over the years. It will also be good to spend some quality time with my family.” 

Academy chairman Ted Atchison praised Clifford’s extraordinary contribution to the organisation and to sport in the region over more than a quarter of a century. 

“It’s a mighty achievement to have given so much over such a long period of time. Ken has made a significant impact on the development of sporting talent in this region and should be very proud of what he has achieved,” Atchison said. 

“The Hunter Academy of Sport board of directors wish Ken all the very best for a well-earned retirement.” 

Atchison said the board would begin the search for Clifford’s successor immediately, more than likely by enlisting the services of a specialist recruitment firm.