Clarko is Tassie’s ‘trump card’

ONE AFL media heavyweight has labelled Alastair Clarkson (pictured) as Tasmania’s trump card in the state’s quest to gain a licence.

The host of Fox Footy’s AFL360, Gerard Whateley says Clarkson could be crucial in gaining the support required next year as the state looks for a 2026 or 2027 entry.

“I think this is real, there is nothing ‘Clarko’ likes more than a project, he’s got plenty of time on his hands and he is a ferocious lobbyer,” Whateley said. “He gets people in a room and he is relentless in prosecuting the case.

“I don’t know if it needs to be done with governments, but I could see him lobbying each club president to get that vote that they need.

“I know there is the idea he might be their foundation coach but that is a long way down the track, but he could be the man who drives them into the league, winning the vote of the presidents. That’s the sort of lobbyist he is.” Fellow panellist, former Brisbane Lions captain Jonathan Brown said he was surprised by Clarkson’s passion for a Tasmanian team after the four-time premiership coach confirmed The Sunday Tasmanian’s report he was willing to campaign. “He was passionate about it last night, it was the first time I ever saw that passion,” Brown said. “It is probably too far away for him to be the coach, but let’s hope he can help Tasmania get a team.”