Stuart Kingsnorth steps down as AFC Ashford Athletic chief: I do not feel I am able to take the club or the team any further in its current state

STUART KINGSNORTH has explained the reasons why he has stepped down as the chairman/manager of AFC Ashford Athletic yesterday.

The club play their home games at Tower School on Faversham Road in Kennington and are currently sitting in tenth-place of 11 sides in the Andreas Carter Kent County League Division Two Central & East table with a playing record of two wins from their 11 league games.

“I have taken the very difficult decision to step down from my role as chairman of the club and first team manager and I will be leaving with immediate effect,” Kingsnorth told the club website.

“As I am sure you can all understand this decision has been far from an easy one and it has taken me quite some time to make.

“There are several factors which have brought me to this moment, but in short, I no longer feel the club is what I set out to build back in 2007.

“Over the last six months we have all been let down by managers, coaches and players who have had their own agendas which has shown a distinct lack of respect and trust placed in them. 

“I no longer recognise my club. I have had many a sleepless night wrestling with this decision, however I do not feel I am able to take the club or the team any further in its current state.

“It genuinely breaks my heart to walk away from this club and I will always feel a sense of not completing what I set out to do.

“Those of you who know me well, will know just how much of me I have put in to this club and everything it means to me.

“Over the course of the summer, I was made several offers to move, but my attachment was too great. I never believed for one moment I would fail, I was wrong and for that I am sorry.

“Over the last 10 years this club has been my home, my church and my family. When I was down, the club lifted me and it gave me purpose.

“Ashford Athletic runs in my blood and to leave is like cutting off a limb. I have so many amazing memories and they will stay with me forever.

“The last few years have been the most special, I’ve been lucky to work with some great coaches, superbly talented players and overall a great group of lads. Our cup final win at the Gallagher Stadium will always be something I look on as a pinnacle moment for the club and it will certainly be one of my fondest memories! 

“Finally, I want to thank every player, coach, girlfriend, wife, supporter, family member, sponsor, League official and referee that has in some way been involved with the club. Without your dedication, time, support and encouragement none of what we achieved would have been possible. I thank you.

“I now move on to take up a new challenge and I leave the club in the hands of my good friend Jon Wright.  Jon, the vice-chairman, will have some of his own very tough decisions to make in the coming days and he will need plenty of patience and support during this time.”

AFC Ashford Athletic are next in action on Saturday 15 December when eighth-placed side Pubjab United Reserves are the visitors.

Visit AFC Ashford Athletic’s website:  www.ashfordathletic.leaguerepublic.com