Western Bulldogs Coach Nominates Potential Candidates for Carlton’s Next Head Coach
Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has put forward four names—two current and two former assistants—who he believes are ready to take on the role of head coach at Carlton. The Blues are expected to seek a new leader following Michael Voss’s departure, with several high-profile candidates in the mix.
A Range of Talent Available
Carlton is currently canvassing the AFL community for their next head coach, and there are plenty of experienced names available. Premiership winners such as Adam Simpson and John Longmire are among those who could be considered. However, the club might also look inward by appointing an assistant coach from a top-tier team, similar to how Melbourne selected Steven King and Sydney chose Dean Cox.
Craig McRae, Collingwood’s coach, has already expressed confidence in his assistant Hayden Skipworth, suggesting he is ready for a head coaching role. Beveridge echoed this sentiment by highlighting his own right-hand men—both past and present—as potential candidates.
Names That Could Make the Cut
The 2016 premiership-winning coach named Daniel Giansiracusa (Hawthorn), Ash Hansen (Carlton), Brendon Lade, and Daniel Pratt (both Bulldogs) as individuals capable of stepping up to the head coaching role. “Over the journey we’ve had assistant coaches come and go, whether it’s Daniel Giansiracusa, Steven King’s just got a job at Melbourne, Ash Hansen’s already at Carlton— all those guys are ready for a chance,” Beveridge said.
Brendon Lade and Daniel Pratt were specifically highlighted as strong contenders. “Brendan Lade is right up there and he’s done all the yards. He’s a big, friendly giant, he’s as capable and as ready as anyone, and Pratty’s in that boat as well.”
Beveridge added, “I’d give them glowing references if I was asked the question, but I don’t want to put the noses out of joint of the Carlton establishment or pick their coach. But if they make the call, I’d definitely be in those guys’ corner.”
Understanding Michael Voss’s Situation
Beveridge expressed empathy for Michael Voss after he stepped down from his role at Carlton. “It’s always sad when a coach finishes up in these circumstances,” Beveridge said. “He’s been unbelievably stoic and as a man representing his football club and his family and his friends, he’s just been extremely resilient and I’ve admired the way he’s gone about it.”
He continued, “I know that his next move, whether it’s in footy or elsewhere, will be extremely rewarding for him.”
Preparing for a Challenging Match
The Bulldogs are set to face a potential banana-skin game against Carlton on Saturday night, with Josh Fraser leading the Blues at Marvel Stadium. Beveridge acknowledged the challenges of facing a team with a new coach, noting that clubs often react differently after a coaching change.
“We can’t do anything about their revs and how they motivate themselves going into this game,” Beveridge said. “Whether they do anything differently—that will be the thing that will be intriguing.”
