Clarkson won’t be rushed on deciding future
DEPARTING Hawthorn premiership coach Alastair Clarkson has maintained he will “take a breath” before making a decision on his future, as clubs including Carlton circle.
But a subtle hint could suggest a return to the coaching box at a rival club is not the No.1 priority for the four-time premiership winner, who will exit the Hawks next weekend after 17 years at the helm.
Hawthorn plays the Western Bulldogs in Tasmania on Saturday, and while AFL games will continue to be played in Hobart and Launceston for the foreseeable future,
Clarkson suggested he may not be involved.
“It’s looking more than likely it will be my last game in Tasmania,” Clarkson said on Friday ahead of his trip south.
Clarkson has been linked to Carlton, where Blues coach David Teague is expected to fall victim to the review of the club’s football department.
Carlton president Mark LoGiudice this week said there had been no approach to the Hawthorn mentor.
“No, not even a cheeky text message,” he told News Corp.
Clarkson also wouldn’t reveal if there had been an approach to his management from the Blues or any other clubs. “That’s best left alone,” he said, with two more games left in charge of the Hawks before premiership captain Sam Mitchell takes control.
Clarkson, 53, said there was no timeline on making a decision, but it was more likely later rather than sooner. He said it could take “some time”.
“I’ve said all along that it’s looking very likely that I’ll take a breathe and have a look at what the second half of my life looks like,” he said.
“That might be in or out of footy. I want to use the fullness of time to just sit back and consider my wife and family.
“All the options are on the table.”