Essendon Football Club Chairman David Evans today issued the following open letter to the Club’s members:
No doubt you will have all heard about events at the club over the past week.
I’m writing to you as Chairman to let you know that the decision to terminate the contract of our coach, Matthew Knights, was not taken lightly.
It was a tough call, but it was made in the best interests of the Essendon Football Club.
Matthew led the club with passion, courage and commitment over the past three seasons. He also conducted himself with dignity and grace under pressure.
However, it became very clear to the club that we did not make the progress we needed to make this year, and that we need a fresh start going into the new season.
We all have a challenge ahead of us – the Board, the management, executive, players and the members of the club. We still have a football review to undertake which will now take a longer time, a new coach to recruit, a 5 year business plan for growth, and issues to resolve about our facility.
We will begin the process of identifying a new coach over the coming days. It is extremely important that we do this carefully, so we will not be rushed.
We will be in a position to let you know more details of the process to find a new coach in the coming days.
Inevitably, there will be a lot of speculation about the future coach, so we will ensure that members are kept up-to-date with developments – while obviously respecting the sensitive nature of our conversations with candidates.
Once again, I thank you for your continued support of the Essendon Football Club as we look for forward to rebuilding for season 2011 and beyond.
Yours sincerely,
David Evans
Chairman
Chairman
