The AFL's Tasmania Devils are on the hunt for a new coach, and the search has led them to a familiar face in Ken Hinkley. Hinkley, a former Port Adelaide coach, is now in the running for the Tasmania Devils job, a move that has sparked interest and speculation among fans and analysts alike.
Hinkley's presentation to the Tasmania Devils coaching selection panel on Sunday was the culmination of months of interest from the club. His management and the Devils were contacted for comment, but Hinkley himself has remained tight-lipped throughout the process, a trait that has become a hallmark of his career.
What makes Hinkley's potential move to Tasmania particularly intriguing is his reputation as an excellent manager of people. This skill is crucial for any coach, but especially in a new market like Tasmania, where the club is establishing itself as a major player in the AFL. Hinkley's ability to create a down-to-earth, hard-working football club culture and connect with the Tasmanian community is seen as a key asset.
His experience in the AFL is also impressive. Hinkley finished up as Port Adelaide coach at the end of the 2025 season, having led the club to four preliminary finals and seven finals series over 13 seasons. This experience, combined with his people skills, makes him a strong candidate for any coaching role.
The Tasmania Devils' selection panel has been meeting with a range of football industry people, including Geelong assistant and former Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley, and former Sydney Swans coach John Longmire. These meetings have been informal, but they have provided valuable insights into the panel's thinking and the criteria they are using to make their decision.
Longmire, in particular, has been open about his thoughts on the Tasmania Devils job. His manager, Liam Pickering, stated that Longmire's contentment in his current role at the Swans means he has a measured outlook when it comes to the Tassie Devils' job. This suggests that the panel is considering a range of factors, including the coach's current situation and potential fit with the club.
The Devils are also on the hunt for a football manager, a role that is likely to be appointed after the coach. This move further emphasizes the club's commitment to building a strong foundation for the team's future success.
In conclusion, the Tasmania Devils' search for a new coach is an intriguing development in the AFL. Ken Hinkley's potential move to Tasmania is a fascinating prospect, and his skills and experience make him a strong candidate. The panel's thorough and considered approach to the selection process is a positive sign, and the club's commitment to building a strong foundation for the team's future success is a welcome development in the AFL.
