SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- On the heels of a tough season for both Terry Phillips and Jeremy Payne, both parties have decided a change is necessary.

While Phillips will be piloting Bloomquist Late Models in 2012, Payne's plans aren't as concrete.

"I want to thank Terry and Andy's for everything they did for me," commented Payne. "Sometimes in life you need a change. I don't have any bad feelings."

During the five-year run, Payne won 19 races between the MARS and MLRA tours. He also managed at least one special event win every year the duo raced together, including some of the biggest modified race wins in the country including four USMTS triumphs.

The decision was made near the end of last week, which leaves some time to get things in order before the next season begins, but Payne is going to Australia during the first week of January to race in a series of four events.

"My plan now is to race modifieds," stated Payne when discussing the 2012 season. "If you are going to race for a living and make any money you need to own your own stuff."

He owns his own modified program and an enclosed trailer.

"We'll probably focus on the USMTS stuff next season, but nothing's for certain."

He did leave the door open to go back down the "hired gun" route, saying he would listen if any car owners were interested in late model racing.

Originally hailing from Tucson, Ariz., he plans to keep his team based in the Springfield, Mo., area.

One thing is for certain, when it comes to driver development it is no doubt Payne benefited by racing in the Midwest.

"I'm in a lot better situation than when I left Tucson."