Thomastown Football Netball Club have announced that Peter Bugden will step down from his role as senior coach at the conclusion of the 2023 season.
Following a break from coaching, Bugden joined the Bears in September last year after the departure of Mario Bandera.
It was Bugden’s second stint in the NFNL, as he was previously coach of Whittlesea between 2008 and 2013, leading the Eagles to two Division 2 flags in 2010 and 2013.
Thomastown are currently in seventh position on the MC Labour Division 2 ladder and are six points away from the top five with four games remaining in the home and away campaign.
Continue below to read a statement released by the Thomastown Football Netball Club.
It is with a mix of emotions that I announce the decision of our Senior Coach, Peter Bugden, to step down from his coaching position at the end of this season.
After much contemplation and soul-searching, Peter has reached this difficult decision due to personal reasons. Over the course of the last season, he has poured his heart and soul into coaching our club, but he believes it is time to pass the baton to someone new.
As many of you may know, coaching is not just a profession; it is a way of life. It demands an unwavering commitment of time, energy, and passion. In his many years as Senior Coach at three different clubs he has witnessed significant changes in the world of coaching.
The demands and challenges have grown, making it an even greater sacrifice for him and his family and not something he feels he can commit to any longer.
Despite the challenges and the fact that results may not always have gone our way, Peter has remained steadfast in his dedication to this club. The countless hours he has spent off the field, strategizing, and nurturing the potential in each player have not gone unnoticed. He has played a pivotal role in creating an enjoyable environment that fosters camaraderie and growth, both on and off the field.
It is important for us to acknowledge the immense contribution Peter has made to our club. In particular his contribution and push to help us field an under 19s side for the first time in over a decade. His passion for the game and his commitment to our club’s values have been an inspiration to us all.
As we bid farewell to Peter as our Senior Coach, let us not dwell solely on the wins and losses. Instead, let us celebrate the shared moments of growth, friendship, and joy that he has brought to this club.
In the coming weeks, the club will begin the search for a new Senior Coach. We will conduct this process with the utmost care and consideration, as we look for someone who can carry forward and build their own legacy at the Thomastown FNC.
Thank you all for your continued support and commitment to our club. Together, we will embrace the future with optimism and the knowledge that the spirit of this team remains unbreakable.
