Andrew 'Killer' Kilpatrick was a coach at the Ramsgate RSL Rams Junior Australian Rules Football Club for 25 years, but this year he's calling it a day.
Known for being reliable, and cooking up a storm on the BBQ, Killer Kilpatrick - who together with his wife Samantha held the role of club president for a decade - will visit Melbourne more often this year, and support his son playing AFL in the southern state.
But Andrew can't drag himself away from the club completely: in 2021 he'll be mentoring one of the other dads who'll be coaching the under-13s, such is his passion for the group.
"I love the camaraderie with the parents and the kids, and watching the kids developing over the years, from Auskick to under-17s when they grow into young men and ladies," Andrew said.
Andrew is this week's Leader Local Champion for being a great role model and always volunteering his time.
Lee Hodge, whose kids attended the club, said Andrew was the kind of bloke who didn't go in for being applauded, but was rather a quiet achiever, always at the ground for set-up and still there at pack-away.
"In 2020 he coached both the Under 12s and the Under 17s which he really enjoyed resulting in both of his teams winning their grand finals," Lee said.
"He is loved by our parents and players alike, all who hope that he coaches their team next."
Andrew had three kids play at the club over the years - including Kynan who was involved in the under-17s in 2020 - and said he got the nickname Killer because of his last name, Kilpatrick.
"It was either that, or Oysters. I preferred Killer," he said.
As for the club, he said it was a family friendly group and he would miss the friends he'd made over the years.
"The focus is on retention and every kid getting a fair go and it's not about winning - it's about making sure the kids have a good time and come back each week and each year. You don't have to be a superstar at our club - we take on all abilities," Andrew said.
"Some of the most fun I've ever had is watching the kids getting enjoyment out of playing footy."
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Sarah Falson
Daily Liberal journalist. I love telling people's stories. Get in touch at sarah.falson@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Daily Liberal journalist. I love telling people's stories. Get in touch at sarah.falson@austcommunitymedia.com.au
