Rodney Eade's departure as coach of the Gold Coast Suns has wider implications than opening a vacancy at the club.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Suns will now begin their search for a successor, and this is when rival clubs begin to feel the impact. Here is what it could mean.
Brad Scott (North Melbourne coach)
Implications: Has suggested he and North Melbourne could have an amicable parting at season's end despite being contracted for another year. There had been those at AFL House who were keen for Scott to take charge of the Brisbane Lions last year when Justin Leppitsch was culled. Scott, a Lions great, understands the Queensland market. His manager Craig Kelly can expect to receive a call.
Nathan Buckley (Collingwood coach)
Implications: Out of contract within weeks and has yet to learn his fate at Collingwood. There is a growing feeling he will be reappointed but the Magpies may have to fast-track an announcement should the Suns show interest in him.
John Barker (Carlton assistant coach)
Implications: Can expect a call and shapes as the front runner. Highly rated Carlton assistant who agreed to terms with the Blues last week on a two-year deal but has not signed a new contract. He was also recommended by AFL figures for the Lions' job last year. Barker has completed the AFL's level-four coaching course. Has also been an assistant at St Kilda and Hawthorn. Was caretaker coach of the Blues in 2015 when Mick Malthouse left and had been one of the finalists for the top role before beaten by Brendon Bolton.
Carlton assistant John Barker will be one of the favourites for the Gold Coast position. Photo: Justin McManus
Brett Ratten (Hawthorn assistant)
Implications: Can expect a call. The Hawks will have more upheaval if the much-loved Ratten was to leave. Has been rejuvenated in his role there after coaching Carlton from late 2007 until 2012. Has expressed interest in again having a top job and is likely to have learnt from his mistakes. Has a link with Suns CEO Mark Evans from their time at Melbourne and Hawthorn.
Stuart Dew (Sydney assistant)
Implications: In the running. The Suns may seek permission to chat with Dew at a time when the Swans are nearing a finals campaign. Dew has completed the level four coaching course and been a development/assistant coach for nine years. Has been linked to previous roles and was Paul Roos' preferred candidate as his successor at Melbourne but that hope was blocked by the Swans.
Adam Kingsley (St KIlda assistant)
Implications: In the running. Has been with the Saints since 2011 and was the AFL Coaches Association's assistant coach of the year in 2015. Another to have completed the level four course. The former Port Adelaide premiership player is meticulous in his preparation.
Former Essendon premiership player Dean Solomon will take over as interim coach at the Suns. Photo: Sebastian Costanzo
Dean Solomon (Gold Coast assistant)
Implications: In the running. Has accepted the opportunity to be caretaker coach for the final three matches. Has been with the club for six seasons and been praised for his individual work with co-captain Steven May and Rory Thompson.
