Essendon Football Club today announced the temporary re-structure of its football department ahead of the upcoming free agency, trade and draft periods.
In the absence of Danny Corcoran, who will commence his four-month suspension from the Club on October 1, interim CEO Ray Gunston will oversee the football department.
The day-to-day responsibilities of the general manager of football will be shared between football operations manager Steven Alessio and list manager Adrian Dodoro.
Gunston said the temporary re-structure had been finalised ahead of an important period on the football calendar.
“This structure provides the football department with the necessary framework to make important decisions for the future of the Club during the upcoming free agency, trade and draft periods,“ Gunston said.
“Steven will look after all administrative, planning and operational matters while Adrian will look after player contracts, list management and draft preparations.”
“I will act as the football representative from the executive and oversee all matters relating to the football department.”
As the Bombers continue the search for a new senior coach, Gunston said the recruitment process was tracking well.
“The process of appointing our senior coach for the 2014 season is progressing well,” Gunston said.
“It’s important the selection committee continue to work through the process to ensure the best person for the role is appointed.”
“At this stage, it is unlikely we will be in a position to make the announcement at the best and fairest on Wednesday night but we look forward to making an announcement as soon as possible.”
Gunston also confirmed strength coach Suki Hobson had tendered her resignation to the Club.
“It is disappointing to be losing Suki but we understand that family comes first and we respect her decision to return home to the UK,” Gunston said.
“Suki has been a valuable member of the club’s strength and conditioning team over the past two years and has developed great respect from the players and coaching staff in her time at the Club.”
“We wish her all the best for the future.”
Rehabilitation coach Jarrod Wade will transition into the position held by Hobson.
The Club recently announced Justin Crow has been appointed High Performance Manager for the next two seasons.
