An interim coaching panel will take the reins at East Sunbury for the next two weeks after the shock resignation of senior coach Steve Grey.
Grey, who was in his fourth year as coach, announced his intentions to step down as coach of the Essendon District Football League division 2 club on Monday afternoon.
After speaking with president Keith Osborne on Tuesday, Grey and the club decided parting ways was the best way to go forward.
Osborne said he was just as shocked as anyone by Grey’s decision.
Grey addressed the playing group last night to tell them of his decision.
“There was a number of contributing things and being a start up senior club, you face a lot of challenges that other clubs don’t have,” Osborne said.
“It can take its toll at times. In the best interest for him and the club we decided parting ways was the best course of action to take.”
Grey’s decision had nothing to do with the Thunder’s thrashing at the hands of Northern Saints at the weekend.
Osborne said they were not only losing a great coach that had made massive inroads with the development of the club, but a great club person as well.
“As a club we’re staying positive,” he said.
“We’re in a really strong position and Steve is a massive part of that.
“We’ve not only lost a coach, but also a clubman. He’s part of the fabric of the club and that hurts the playing group.”
Anthony Galea, Jason Spiteri, Darren Bird and Darrell Cartwright will share the coaching duties over the next two weeks against Roxburgh Park and Moonee Valley.
The Thunder then has a bye.
Osborne said they hoped in that time they could appoint an interim coach for the rest of the season.
“We are trying to keep things as smooth sailing as possible,” he said.
“The proof is in the pudding that it’s working. We’re hoping this will bring the playing group even closer.”
Osborne said the aims of the club this season don’t change despite Grey leaving.
The Thunder sits a game clear on top of the ladder, as they look to play finals for the first time.
As well as resigning from the senior coaching role, Grey has also stepped aside from coaching the club’s under-17 team.
