The AFL world can collectively breathe a sigh of relief and turn its attention to some fascinating final-round action.
Coaching legend Alastair Clarkson has committed to the almighty task of trying to drag North Melbourne out of a lengthy cellar-dwelling stint. It finishes what has seemed like endless discourse and innuendo that’s sent the media world into a frenzy. He’s signed a lucrative five year deal.
Clarkson’s time as Hawthorn coach ended last season and let’s hope he’s had some time to recharge the batteries, despite recently labelling the speculation and attention as ’embarrassing’.
It’s time for Roos fans to enjoy newfound optimism and for all the non-Essendon fans to think, ‘good for them’.
Clarkson is already drawing inspiration from other ladder risers, hopeful he can turn things around at Arden Street quick smart.
“We’ve seen with Carlton and Collingwood it doesn’t take much to turn it around,” Clarkson said in his announcement.
“Get the right people in, the right vision and everyone marching to the same tune, and you can pick things up pretty quickly.
“I’m really excited with that challenge, but it’s going to take a lot of hard work.”
The ‘super coach’ reunites with North Melbourne, playing 93 games for the club between 1987-95.
Clarkson will be the Kangaroos’ fourth coach in five years, a churn that is set to stop. The 54-year-old is a four-time premiership-winning coach, in charge of the Hawks from 2005-2021.
