Last week, John Worsfold spoke like a man on a mission.
But by the time he woke up on Thursday morning, Worsfold realised he no longer had the passion, energy or enthusiasm to continue as West Coast AFL coach.
After a year in which West Coast went from premiership fancies to also-rans, Worsfold was simply spent.
Or so the club claims.
Conspiracy theorists will be quick to say Worsfold only chose to fall on his sword after getting a dreaded tap on the shoulder by the club's board.
Those theories were further fuelled by the fact Worsfold didn't even turn up to the 4pm (6pm AEST) media conference to announce his resignation.
West Coast chairman Alan Cransberg claimed Worsfold had more important things to do, like picking his kids up from school or telling friends and family about his decision to quit.
Apparently, the decision for him to stand down was amicable.
Apparently, there was no blood spilt.
Whatever the case, Worsfold will be remembered as the club's greatest figure.
As Cransberg put it, Worsfold will still be regarded as a pivotal figure at West Coast 100 years down the track.
Worsfold became a fan favourite during his 209-game playing career, with his fearless attack on both ball and man helping West Coast claim the 1992 and '94 flags.
Then as coach, Worsfold led the club to eight finals campaigns in 12 seasons, including a grand final in 2005 and the premiership in 2006.
Even after Saturday's 86-point loss to Adelaide, Worsfold was eager to secure a new two-year deal, claiming the club's board still retained full faith in him.
But chief executive Trevor Nisbett said it then dawned on Worsfold that he no longer had the passion for the role.
"The time and effort it takes to coach a senior football team does take its toll," Nisbett said.
"It's uncompromising, and you have to give it everything. You're here all day, every day, every waking moment.
"I think it probably dawned on him over the last few days that it was time (to stand down).
"He even mentioned that having a break, a couple of weeks off, still wouldn't help him rekindle the fire in the belly that you need for this job."
Worsfold released a statement saying he simply had nothing more to give.
"It has been in the back of my mind and I have been convincing myself that, at the end of the season, there's less intensity, you'll rekindle all the energy, you'll have a break and you'll be up and going again," Worsfold said.
"But I just think it's time now.
"My time is done as coach of this footy club.
"I couldn't have had a better time. I couldn't have asked for any more.
"I certainly couldn't have given any more."
Worsfold's shock departure means there are now four clubs on the lookout for a senior coach.
Speculation is rife the Demons will announce the signing of Sydney premiership coach Paul Roos in coming days.
Essendon still need to confirm who will take over from James Hird while the Bombers' great serves his 12-month ban.
If Worsfold wants to jump back into the hot seat straight away, Brisbane shapes as an option for him after the recent sacking of Michael Voss.
West Coast hope to announce Worsfold's replacement by mid-October.
Fremantle assistant Peter Sumich, who was Worsfold's right-hand man for 10 years, will be among the contenders to replace his former boss.
Former Magpie and current West Coast assistant coach Scott Burns will also be strongly considered.
