Potential West Coast coaching candidate Ash Hansen has addressed questions about the Eagles’ coaching vacancy and whether he would entertain a call from the club looking to replace Adam Simpson.
Hansen was one of the initial names considered ideal for the role, being a prominent assistant coach in the AFL. The 41-year-old, a former West Coast premiership player, has over a decade of coaching experience, starting with the Western Bulldogs, where he led VFL affiliate Footscray to a premiership in 2016.
Hansen joined Carlton at the end of 2021, taking on a senior assistant role under Michael Voss, further enhancing his impressive coaching credentials. Previously, he was linked to senior coaching positions, including the GWS job two years ago, which was eventually filled by Adam Kingsley.
When questioned by 7 News about his interest in the West Coast job and stepping into a senior role, Hansen emphasized his commitment to his current position with the Blues and the importance of timing for his next career move.
“I appreciate the interest and the question. But out of respect for the job I do now, my eyes are solely focused on trying to get my team up and support Vossy,” Hansen said on Friday.
“With every year that passes, you build more and more experience. That doesn’t have an expiry date. I’ve been given a lot of opportunity here and at the Bulldogs to really build my craft. So I’m learning every year and really enjoying it.
“There is plenty of opportunity in the competition. When those opportunities come along, you’re never sure, it has to be the right time. I’m just loving what I’m doing here and getting better every week.”
When asked if he would take a call from West Coast, Hansen declined to give a definitive answer, citing respect for his current role and the club’s process.
“I think out of respect for what I’m doing now and respect for any club’s process, I’d keep that confidential,” the Blues assistant said.
“I’m a respectful person, and as I’ve said previously, I’ll continue to be that way.”
West Coast’s search for a new coach faced significant setbacks over the past week. Leading candidate Dean Cox expressed his intention to stay with Sydney, effectively ruling out a return to his former club.
Ash Hansen on the West Coast coaching vacancy: pic.twitter.com/W2iciikuQd
— Mitch Cleary (@cleary_mitch) July 27, 2024
Port Adelaide assistant Josh Carr has also dismissed the possibility of a move back to Perth, and his senior coach, Ken Hinkley, has deflected inquiries about being linked to the West Coast position.
Other potential candidates include GWS assistant Brett Montgomery and former Eagles assistant Adrian Hickmott. Additionally, West Coast caretaker coach Jarrad Schofield is likely to be considered for the role, provided he can make a strong impression during his remaining time in charge for the 2024 season.