Ken Hinkley's head coaching tenure at Port Adelaide will come to a close in 2025, with the long-time AFL gaffer to hand the reins to senior assistant Josh Carr at season's end.
The Power unveiled its succession plan Wednesday but reiterated Hinkley would remain in charge throughout the upcoming campaign before Carr takes over on an initial three-year contract.
"Without question, Ken is the senior coach for this season," said Port Adelaide chairman David Koch. "Whilst Josh will be our senior coach in 2026, he remains focused on his role in supporting Ken in 2025 and will be perfectly positioned to transition into the senior role at the end of the season."
Hinkley, who has been in charge of the Power since 2013 and led the club to seven finals series, said he has always put the needs of the club above his own.
"I've enjoyed open dialogue with the club for some time now in regards to this being my final season in charge," said Hinkley. "I, along with our leaders at the club, always have an eye for the future and as I've been saying for the last year, Josh Carr is absolutely the best person to take over as senior coach at the right time.
"I still have a burning desire to lead this club in 2025. I'm fresh and recharged and have the privilege of leading a very driven playing and coaching group.
"But come the end of the season, it will be time to hand the baton to Josh who would have experienced a further 12 months' growth as a senior assistant. Without question, Josh will be ready to coach in his own right."
Carr will continue as Port Adelaide's midfield coach this season before stepping up to the main job.
"Whilst it's an honour to have been appointed Port Adelaide's next senior coach, my focus right now is to support Ken, the other coaches and players as best I can as we strive for success this season," said Carr. "I will continue to take every opportunity to develop and grow as a coach across this season."
Port Adelaide open their season away to Collingwood at the MCG on March 15.
More to follow...