The ‘handshake agreement’ between Port Adelaide and Ken Hinkley’s successor revealed that Caroline Wilson is certain that Port Adelaide has secured the appointment of Josh Carr, the current assistant, as their next senior coach, who will take over at the end of the following season.
According to Wilson, the Power have reached a “handshake agreement” whereby Carr will succeed current coach Ken Hinkley starting in 2026.
It happens after Hinkley’s contract was extended during the 2023 campaign, a season in which Port Adelaide finished in the top four but lost in straight sets in the finals.
Wilson stated on Monday night’s episode of Nine’s Footy Classified, “David Koch and Ken Hinkley spoke about something this weekend which I now completely accept is a handshake agreement with Josh Carr.”
“Kenny Hinkley will coach this year, coach the following year, and step aside for Josh Carr, all other things being equal.”
David Koch, president of Power, has praised Hinkley for his graciousness in appointing a successor.
“I believe Ken is genuinely encouraging Josh to advance to the position of senior coach. Koch stated on ABC Radio, “Ken has stated in the open that he would love to see him as the senior coach of Port Adelaide.
Even Hinkley acknowledged the remarkable coaching qualities of Carr, endorsing him to succeed him in the future.
Hinkley stated on 3AW Radio, “I don’t know whether Josh will definitely be the next man at Port Adelaide, because that’s not a decision for me.”
“However, Josh will eventually hold the position of senior coach. Being in Port Adelaide would be wonderful.”
If talks are underway to replace the current leader, Hinkley further denied any animosity towards Carr.
He declared, “I’m doing everything in my power to get Josh that job.”
Wilson clarified that in order to guarantee Carr’s smooth transition into the position, the Power, who are still in the premiership window, have been planning for the long-term success of the team.
“Off the field, Josh Carr and the club are collaborating closely. Rob Mason is a consultant for the coaches, but he works directly with Josh,” the spokesperson stated.
“He didn’t apply for the senior coaching position in Richmond last year, mainly because it was made clear to him—through a handshake agreement—that he could take up the Port Adelaide position whenever he was ready.
“He’s still not ready; he wasn’t last year.” It is believed that they are attempting to prepare him for the end of 2025.”
With three victories and one defeat, Port Adelaide is currently ranked sixth in the AFL.
They play on Saturday night against Fremantle.
