Why Aaron Kite is standing down as East Sunbury coach

East Sunbury will be on the lookout for a new senior coach next year after Aaron Kite announced he would stand down as the Thunder also rally behind one of their own.

East Sunbury will turn to a new senior coach to continue its resurgence in 2024.

The club has confirmed Aaron kite will step down from the role at the end of the current season due to personal circumstances.

Kite was appointed as the club’s senior mentor last year when the Thunder announced they were set to field a senior side in the Essendon District league again.

“Due to family commitments and the expected arrival of his twins, Aaron will continue at East Sunbury, as a full-time player and assistant coach for the seniors during the 2024 season,” club president

“East Sunbury Football Club is thankful to Aaron and his commitment to rebuilding our senior sector in his first season at the club. We are appreciative of his hard work, determination and dedication to support and enhance the growth and success of the club. We are excited to have his involvement and leadership continue with East Sunbury moving forward.

“We would like to offer Aaron, Megan and family our best wishes, prosperity and support for the future.”

Aaron Kite will remain at East Sunbury as a player. Picture: Andy Brownbill

The Thunder currently sit on the bottom of the Division 2 ladder with no wins since their return this season.

Mitch Church has been his side’s leading goalkicker with 27 majors, 15 clear of Tom Burnside who is next best on 12.

Among the better players have been Brad Kite, Daniel Paulete and Jamie Fisher who have consistently been among the better players.

With three games left to play in the season, East Sunbury will face off against Coburg Districts, Northern Saints and Taylors Lakes.

EAST SUNBURY RALLIES AROUND FORMER PRESIDENT

The Thunder is also rallying behind former president Glenn Smerdon after he was recently diagnosed with cancer.

A GoFundMe has been started to help he and his family pay for the treatment.

“Glen is a very private fella, and doesn't want sympathy, he is a hard bugger and will smash this challenge, we know that,” the fundraiser says.

“But his next 3-6 months are going to be really tough- chemo and radiation every day.

“To top things off, he was also let go from his job this week when his employer realised he will be out of action for a long time and not profitable to their company. Bloody harsh and unfair.

“But as he does, he has just put his head down and hit his treatments head on.

“I have seen him first hand raise money for families and players at our cricket club when things went pear shaped for them, and I reckon he deserves our support.

“He is a proud man, but its his turn now to be helped out.”

You can donate here.