Hood led the Cats to a preliminary final in their first AFLW campaign in 2019 but finishes with a 6-17 record at the helm, including just one victory in the 2021 season.

He joined the Cats in late 2010 and worked in roles including VFL men's coach, player development manager and Next Generation Academy manager.

Hood was Geelong's first VFLW coach in 2017 before being appointed AFLW coach and this year returned to full-time secondary school teaching alongside his AFLW duties.

"I have been so fortunate to work alongside many brilliant people in the Geelong Cats football department who tirelessly support all of our players," Hood said.

"In the last five years it's been a joy to work alongside our staff in the women's program, to be a part of building something that can inspire the young women of Geelong for generations."

Geelong chief executive Brian Cook hailed Hood for his work in establishing the Cats' women's football program.

"Paul has been a key leader of our women's football program from its inception, he brought the program to life," Cook said.

"In his many roles at the club over the past decade, Paul's unwavering commitment to the development of our players is to be commended

"We respect Paul's decision to step away from his role and wish him the very best both personally and professionally."

Geelong will begin a recruitment process to replace Hood in the coming weeks.

Australian Associated Press