Different lifestyle key factor for coach

KEN Hinkley last night confirmed Gold Coast had tried to get him back to the AFL franchise where he was an assistant coach from late 2009 until he moved to Port Adelaide in late 2012.

“The conversation with my manager was to ask the question about whether I would or could (take up the Gold Coast vacancy),” Hinkley said.

“Clearly, I think that club has – and I know it has because I’ve been there – the chance for success. I hope it does well. But for me, it did not fit.

“The lifestyle on the Gold Coast is very different ... my family and I have spent time there. We wouldn’t be guessing what it may be like.

“We understand what it would be like but we’re really committed to Port Adelaide.

“When you’re in love, you’re in love.”

A lucrative five-year deal for Hinkley to join the Suns had been reported but the club insisted no figures involving money or years had been talked about outside of their initial interest.

It had been hoped by snaring Hinkley, the coach would be able to persuade star midfielder Gary Ablett, a friend of his, to recommit to the Suns.

Gold Coast chief executive Mark Evans is yet to put his complete findings of the football department review to his board and is not likely to do so until a new coach is appointed.

The new coach and the future of Ablett has dominated talk surrounding Gold Coast and the dual-Brownlow medallist may not be far from making his own decision.

Ablett returned to Victoria to speak with his family about his plans for 2018 and beyond as the footy world waits to see if he will request another trade back to Geelong.

The 33-year-old has since returned for a short stint and took the time to train at the club’s facilities and attend the funeral of a Suns staffer before going back to Victoria.