Ken Hinkley Addresses Media Backlash Ahead of St Kilda Clash

Port Adelaide Power coach Ken Hinkley has responded to recent intense media criticism following his team's unexpected 79-point loss to the Brisbane Lions last weekend.

Pressure Mounts After Heavy Defeat

The defeat, witnessed by a frustrated home crowd and former premiership heroes from 2004, has added significant pressure on Hinkley, drawing widespread scrutiny.

Tredrea's Comments Reignite Controversy

Former captain and current board member Warren Tredrea sparked a media frenzy with comments critical of Hinkley, whom he had previously described as facing an "untenable" coaching position last year. Despite a remarkable 13-game winning streak afterward, the recent heavy loss reopened old wounds and sparked fresh controversy.

Media Frenzy and Clarifications

Tredrea came under fire after supporting a caller on Five AA talkback radio who labeled Hinkley a "conman" and called for his immediate removal. He later clarified that his remark wasn't an endorsement of the caller's views but merely an acknowledgment.

Journalistic Exchange and Division Concerns

Veteran journalist Caroline Wilson challenged Tredrea during a heated exchange on the same station, accusing him of contributing to perceived division within the club by not adequately defending Hinkley. Wilson questioned whether Tredrea's own position on the Port Adelaide board was under threat and expressed disbelief over his response to the caller.

Tredrea's Defense and Public Reaction

In response, Tredrea defended himself, claiming his comments had been misinterpreted and reaffirmed his support for Hinkley both publicly and privately. The controversy surrounding Tredrea's remarks became one of the week's most discussed topics, with opinions divided on their appropriateness. AFL 360 host Mark Robinson criticized Tredrea's comments as "incredibly silly" and suggested they could be viewed as damaging.

Hinkley's Response and Forward Outlook

Addressing the media on Friday, Hinkley remained composed when discussing the situation. "It's fair to discuss it, but this isn't a one-man show; it's about the team," he said. He acknowledged being aware of Tredrea's comments but stated he hadn't heard them directly. He accepted Tredrea's clarification and emphasized his resilience in navigating challenging periods.

Looking Ahead to St Kilda Clash

"I've always been a fighter," Hinkley asserted, underscoring his determination to lead his team through adversity. The upcoming match against St Kilda on Sunday will be crucial in gauging the team's support for Hinkley and their prospects for a finals berth in 2024. Another loss may intensify calls for a mid-season coaching change, while a win could significantly improve their ladder position, potentially placing them as high as fifth.