Ken Hinkley named inaugural coach of Tasmania Devils

Ken Hinkley has been appointed as the inaugural senior coach of the Tasmania Devils, the AFL's 19th franchise, which is scheduled to join the league in 2028. The club made the formal announcement on Monday, July 20, 2026, concluding a year-long search for the candidate to lead the start-up team. Hinkley, the former Port Adelaide coach, was selected over other finalists Nathan Buckley and John Longmire.

Club chair Grant O'Brien stated that the decision was based on finding the right cultural fit rather than simply the best win-loss record. He emphasized Hinkley's reputation as a teacher and builder of people, skills deemed essential for developing a young list and establishing a club from the ground up. In a statement, O'Brien highlighted Hinkley's exceptional ability to build relationships with young players and create an environment where people want to belong.

Hinkley expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge, calling it a huge privilege and a special responsibility to lead Tasmania's entry into the AFL. He acknowledged the journey would involve ups and downs, including building the football department, but said his directly relevant experience prepared him for the task. He...