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'Feel Like My Life's Shot': Clarkson Opens up on Axing
Clarkson said the club’s public explanation and allegations against him have left his wife and children devastated, while he disputes the reasons for his removal.
On Wednesday, North Melbourne sacked four-time premiership coach Alastair Clarkson despite one year remaining on his contract. Clarkson claimed the manner of his dismissal left his family "publicly humiliated."
President Sonja Hood and football operations boss Todd Viney ratified the decision at a Monday board meeting, citing "gaping holes" in the team's game plan following a performance review.
Clarkson denied allegations regarding his conduct with Essendon AFLW players in a lift incident on August 23. He stated he was "blindsided" and felt the club "danced on my grave" during termination.
Former player David King criticized the club's blunt public assessment of Clarkson. North has commenced a recruitment process to replace the veteran coach.
Premiership coaches John Longmire and Adam Simpson are potential candidates for the role, though the club may also consider highly-rated assistants following first-time coaches Steven King and Josh Fraser's success this year.