Despite speculation suggesting he might be “weeks away” from stepping down as coach of Port Adelaide, footy icon Malcolm Blight remains optimistic that Ken Hinkley will adhere to the club’s succession plan.
The Power appear set to miss the finals this year after announcing during the pre-season that Hinkley would pass the coaching baton to assistant coach Josh Carr at the conclusion of this season.
With the reality of a challenging season approaching, Nine’s chief AFL reporter Tom Morris revealed last month that the Port coach might depart early if he believed the team was no longer in contention.
Ken Hinkley addressing his players. AFL Photos via Getty Images
“Ken Hinkley will step away from Port Adelaide if and when he believes the club no longer has a chance,” he mentioned on Nine’s Footy Classified.
“Port and Ken are in complete agreement on this matter; they approach his future with a pragmatic mindset. The club won’t sack Hinkley during the season.
“They will allow Ken to make the decision if it comes to that point, and if so, they will do it with respect and in the appropriate manner. While we’re not at that stage yet, it could be only weeks away.”
However, Blight, a member of the Australian Football Hall of Fame, noted that he had lunch with Hinkley recently, who dismissed such notions.
“I keep in touch with Ken through texts and conversations a few times a year just to check in on how he’s tracking,” Blight shared with SEN.
“I thought it was about time for a chat over lunch, and we discussed various topics.
“He’s feeling positive and actually quite excited about the upcoming match against GWS after a week off. If there’s any time to expect a response from the players, this bye week should do the trick for everyone.”
Josh Carr will be Port Adelaide coach from 2026 onwards. Getty
“Ken will be who he is; he has been thoroughly professional for 13 consecutive years.
“You don’t stay in a role if you aren’t good at it for an extended period.
“That decision is already in place; he’s simply focused on this weekend’s game.
“He seemed upbeat about the entire situation. Without a doubt, he’ll see out the season, with absolutely no changes planned.”
The Power have recalled Esava Ratugolea, Kane Farrell, and Josh Sinn for their upcoming match against GWS.
They currently sit 15th on the ladder heading into round 13, having secured four wins this season.
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