Luke Beveridge criticizes AFL coaching culture after Alastair Clarkson dismissal

Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has commented on the dismissal of Alastair Clarkson as North Melbourne coach, describing the current culture of AFL coaching as increasingly cut-throat. Beveridge, who previously served as an assistant to Clarkson at Hawthorn, expressed concern regarding the impact of constant speculation on the vocational sustainability of senior coaches.

Beveridge compared the current climate of the AFL to the English Premier League, noting that coaching mortality is speculated upon much more frequently than in leagues like the NFL. He highlighted the personal toll such instability takes on coaches and their families, stating, “It’s not a nice place to live.”

Despite the dismissal, Beveridge praised Clarkson as an “amazing coach” and a “custodian of the game” who has pushed for improvements within the sport. Clarkson’s tenure at North Melbourne concluded after winning 20 of 82 games.