In a recent turn of events, Mark Williams has been praised by Alastair Clarkson, coach of the North Melbourne Kangaroos, following Williams’ departure from the Melbourne Demons. The Demons announced on Thursday that they had parted ways with Williams, who served as head of development for five years and played a significant role in their 2021 premiership victory. Clarkson expressed hope that changes to the AFL’s soft cap could lead to new opportunities for coaches like Williams.
Clarkson, who previously worked alongside Williams at Port Adelaide, commended him as an experienced figure in the sport. “Yeah, yeah — well, ‘Choco’ has been in the game for a long, long period of time,” Clarkson remarked. He acknowledged Williams’ extensive experience and success across various clubs, indicating a willingness to potentially bring Williams into his coaching staff in the future.
Despite the admiration, Clarkson clarified that North Melbourne currently does not have an available position. “We don’t have a spot,” he stated, noting that clubs have been strategizing their coaching structures since the soft cap increase introduced on August 1. This adjustment is expected to provide more resources for coaching staff across the league.
The decision to release Williams came shortly after the sacking of senior coach Simon Goodwin earlier this month. Both coaches are expected to remain in the AFL next season. Goodwin, whose wife holds a prominent position in the Sydney finance sector, has reportedly engaged in discussions with the Greater Western Sydney Giants about a possible role.
The announcement of Williams’ exit was first reported by his former player Kane Cornes, who emphasized that Williams is eager to continue his career in the AFL. “He is the most impressive football person that I have ever worked with, and I can also tell you that he’s desperate to continue,” Cornes noted. At 66 years of age, Williams remains determined and passionate about contributing to the sport.
Williams’ legacy includes leading Port Adelaide to their inaugural premiership in 2004, as well as his recent contributions to the Demons’ success. His career also encompasses a role in launching the GWS Giants and serving as head of development for the Richmond Tigers from 2013 to 2016. Despite not being part of Richmond’s subsequent premierships, Williams left a lasting impact, particularly on players like Dustin Martin.
Cornes also posits that Williams could be a fitting choice for the AFL’s 19th club in Tasmania, citing his ability to nurture young talent. “He’s the only person to be there from the ground up at three clubs,” Cornes stated, underscoring Williams’ unique qualifications for developing first-year teams. With Tasmania planning to spend at least a year before entering the main competition, Williams’ expertise in player development could prove invaluable.
In addition to Tasmania, Cornes suggested that Carlton would benefit from Williams’ skills. The Blues have faced challenges with their skill levels this season, and Cornes highlighted Williams’ dedication to enhancing gameplay skills. “No one is more passionate about developing the skills of the game than Mark Williams,” he asserted.
As the AFL continues to evolve, Williams’ next move remains uncertain, but his extensive experience and passion for the game ensure that he will remain a key figure to watch in the coming months.
