Assistant Coach Simon Black has confirmed he will step away from his role at the Brisbane Lions at seasons end to focus on growing his Academy program, The Simon Black Australian Rules Academy.

Black, a triple premiership and 322 game player with the Lions, said the decision to leave the club after 19 years was a difficult one.

Speaking about his Academy program, Black concedes, "When you've got your name attached to it, you've obviously got to have a degree of presence.

"Despite the win-loss ratio this year, I've really enjoyed the coaching role and feel I've grown into it.

"It's been a really tough decision to get to this point, but I really want to thank all of the Lions supporters out there. You guys have been such strong, consistent members of the Club during some really tough times.

"In the 19 years I've been at the Lions it's just been wonderful to have that connection with you guys."

Black will remain in Brisbane with his family as his Academy program expands across the country.

"I'll still be around, I hope to have some kind of small coaching role with the Club next year, though I've still got to work out what that may look like.

"I'll certainly miss coming to the Gabba everyday like I have for the past 19 years.

"I'm sure the Club is onwards and upwards."