Ken Hinkley says he won’t think about the Melbourne coaching job, Jase Burgoyne’s season likely over
Ken Hinkley says he’s focused on his Port Adelaide coaching job, and wouldn’t think about the vacant Demons role – or any roles – “before Christmas”. Plus, it could be season over for a young gun.
Ken Hinkley would not be drawn on the Melbourne coaching vacancy, saying he did not expect to think about his next move before Christmas.
Hinkley, whose 13-year tenure at Port Adelaide finishes at season’s end, has been linked to the Demons job since Simon Goodwin’s sacking on Monday night.
But the Power coach hinted he would not jump straight into another senior role next season.
“I’m not going to think about it (2026 plans) today, I don’t think I’m going to think about it before Christmas,” the 58-year-old said.
“I’m going to take a moment to enjoy three more weeks.
“As I’ve said all the way through, my concentration will remain at Port Adelaide the entire season and enjoy those moments.
“I’m not going to be drawn into anything other than what I’m excited about and that is to still be here and helping these boys.”
The Power enters its last three matches of the Hinkley era in 11th on the ladder with an 8-10 record, ensuring the club will miss finals for the first time since 2022.
Port hosts Fremantle on Saturday night then faces Carlton (away) and Gold Coast (home) to finish the campaign.
Hinkley said after that he would reset, refresh, spend time with family and then think about what was next.
Port expected captain Connor Rozee to return from illness against the Dockers and was hopeful Jack Lukosius would be available despite a calf injury.
Lukosius’s addition could force last week’s debutant, Jack Whitlock, back to the SANFL.
Half-back/wingman Jase Burgoyne will miss Saturday night’s match – and possibly the rest of the season – with a lower leg injury.
If he requires surgery, it will be the team’s 19th this season.
Coming off 98 and 88-point losses, the Power was determined to build momentum ahead of senior assistant Josh Carr’s first campaign as coach.
Hinkley expected the team, which made a preliminary final last season and semi-final in 2023, to be really good next year.
“We’ve talked just this week around being a club that shows some real energy out of a disappointing year into the next season,” he said.
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“I think it’s really important because if you let it become overbearing, you can turn one poor one into another potentially poor season.
“I don’t think that will happen here.
“You can see Port Adelaide fit and healthy with a bit of energy and newness around the club bouncing pretty quick.”
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