Alastair Clarkson “refutes any allegation of wrongdoing or misconduct” but will delay his start as North Melbourne coach as the AFL investigates Hawthorn’s treatment of Indigenous players
Clarkson, who coached the Hawks to four premierships including a historic treble between 2013 and 2015, was due to start his new job as North coach on November 1. But the club’s plans have been thrown into disarray by an ABC report in which it was alleged that Indigenous
Alastair Clarkson won four premierships as coach of the Hawks and will delay his start at North Melbourne.Clarkson released a statement on Wednesday evening, saying: “the health, care and welfare of our players, staff and their families were always my highest priorities during my time at Hawthorn Football Club.
“I have today contacted the president of North Melbourne Football Club and we have mutually agreed that I will step back from my responsibilities at the club so I can fully cooperate in the investigation.” “Alastair was due to commence work with North Melbourne on November 1 however he will delay the start of his tenure to allow time to fully participate in the investigation.”
“As the matters are now with the AFL integrity unit, the Brisbane Lions won’t make any further comment at this stage.”after conducting a review with former and current First Nations players and their families.