Brett Ratten will be the interim senior coach in Alastair Clarkson’s absence.Credit:Jason South
“We support the decision by North Melbourne coach Alastair Clarkson to take the step today to prioritise his own health and wellbeing,” AFL chief Gillon McLachlan said.
“We understand how much the investigation by the independent panel into allegations of racism has impacted on all people involved,including Alastair,and believe the investigation needs to find resolution.
“It is a heavy burden being carried by all parties involved and the wellbeing of everyone who is a part of this process is the key priority for our game.
“It takes great courage to stand up and say you need to focus on your own personal wellbeing and we support Alastair in doing what he needs to do in the best interests of himself and his family. We will continue to provide support to all parties.
“The AFL supports current efforts to find a mediated outcome that provides fairness and natural justice for all involved and encourage all parties to work towards a timely and just outcome.”
Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell,who succeeded Clarkson in an acrimonious handover,refused to comment on his former boss’ call to step away.
“I just read the press release just before and walked out,and I thought North Melbourne summed it up well;they asked for privacy and I think me adding to that narrative is not going to help anyone,” Mitchell said.
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“It is a serious thing,stepping away from such a big job is obviously a big decision. It’s my job to respect what they’ve asked for,and they asked for privacy so hopefully we’ll all do that ... I will leave it there.”
Asked about his reaction to Clarkson’s recent speech to the academy prospects in which Clarkson was critical of Mitchell’s early grand final appearances,the Hawthorn coach said:“I’m not going into it.”
The Kangaroos issued a statement supporting Clarkson,whose appointment last year was seen as a major step in the club’s rebuild.
“The club is providing its full support to Alastair and we commend him for making this important decision to put his health first,” North Melbourne president Dr Sonja Hood said.
“Everyone involved has been deeply affected by the Hawthorn investigation and the burden on Alastair has been significant.
Alastair Clarkson has stepped away from football indefinitely.Credit:AFL Photos
“We will give Alastair whatever time he needs to restore his health and look forward to welcoming him back when he is fully fit.
“We have strong leaders at our club who will step up and support and coach our team while Alastair spends time focusing on his health.
“We are fortunate to have someone of Brett Ratten’s experience and capability to coach the team in the interim.”
AFL Coaches Association chief executive Alistair Nicholson said the organisation had reached out to Clarkson to offer support,and called for the Hawthorn investigation to be expedited.
“The entire AFL coaching group is thinking of Alastair Clarkson today,” Nicholson said.
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