If there’s one thing you can say about Kyle Yeates, it’s that he never does things in halves. Whether he’s throwing himself into a crunching tackle, juggling coaching duties, studying to be a teacher, or supporting students at Kooringal State High School as a Student Learning Support Officer (SLSO), he’s got more commitments than minutes in a football match.

A 186 cm center-back with the Wagga City Wanderers, Kyle has made a habit of being the guy you want on your team—not just because he can stop an attack, but because he’s probably coached half the players on the pitch at some point. He’s played for Junee Jaguars, Henwood Park Football Club, and a few other local teams, collecting experience like some people collect yellow cards (not that he’d ever admit to that).

Back in 2020, he took on the role of Soccer Development Officer for Football Wagga Wagga, a job that meant he wasn’t just bossing the backline—he was also shaping the future of football in the region. After a solid stint growing the game and guiding young talent, he hung up his clipboard in 2021, deciding to focus on playing, coaching, and, you know, finally getting some sleep.

Kyle’s journey wouldn’t be complete without Wellways, an organization that played a massive role in his personal and professional growth. During his time there, he provided mental health support to the community while also helping the Wanderers foster a culture that prioritizes well-being both on and off the pitch. Wellways has been a huge supporter of the club, and their influence can still be felt in the values Kyle brings to his coaching and leadership.

Despite his packed schedule, Kyle remains a massive influence at the Wanderers. He was named Clubperson of the Year in 2017, proving that being a good bloke sometimes gets official recognition. In 2024, he added “U23’s coach” to his ever-growing football CV, working alongside Andy Heller to ensure the Wanderers keep making strides in the Capital Premier League.

Off the field, he’s now balancing work at Kooringal State High School with his studies to become a teacher at CSU Wagga—because, apparently, playing and coaching football just wasn’t enough. Whether it’s in the classroom, on the pitch, or somewhere in between, Kyle is the kind of player who leads by example, except maybe when it comes to taking on fewer responsibilities.

Expect to see him in the thick of the action, keeping strikers in his pocket and somehow still finding time for everything else.