SOLOMON’S START ALL ABOUT SUNS REBUILD
DEAN Solomon says he wants to become an AFL head coach but his immediate focus is on injecting the physicality that he believes can turn the side’s form around.
The interim senior coach is among the list of names floated as potential replacements to sacked Suns mentor Rodney Eade and he will have the final three games of the season against Brisbane, Essendon and Port Adelaide to show what he can do.
Solomon revealed his desire was to one day take on the top position at a club but said he was in no rush to get there after seven years as an assistant at the Gold Coast.
“I’m just continuing to really develop myself the best way I possibly can,” he said.
“I have been lucky enough to be in the level four course which is really solid and has taught me a lot of things.
“Ultimately what happens is it’s someone else’s decision whether you’re ready or not.
“If the right opportunity arises in the future - whether that is six months of six years - we will look at it then.
“Right now my focus is very simple; it’s here with the players and trying to provide the best environment for them. I can’t look any further than that.”
Solomon already has the support of the players, coaches and club staff and the fact he is completing his level four AFL coaching accreditation will help his chances of getting the job at the Gold Coast if they choose to look internally for Eade’s successor.
The course was the brainchild of new CEO Mark Evans during his time as operations manager at the AFL.
Solomon was offered a position at GWS but said his first preference was to stay at the Gold Coast.
“I see the upside in this footy club,” Solomon said.
“Myself and a lot of other people put so much work into this football club.”
Solomon was tough and uncompromising as a player and he believes it is that physical side of the game that has let the team down so far.
Star midfielder Gary Ablett has been ruled out of a side already missing co-captain and key forward Tom Lynch.
Ablett has a small tear in his right hamstring.