It is probably the toughest gig in the business, especially when the expectations are high. Whether they are looking to go that one step further or just make their claim among the best, these coaches will be feeling the heat in 2023.
Here is our list of the five coaches under the most pressure heading into next season.
SEE ALSO: WHO HAS THE OLDEST LIST HEADING INTO 2023?ย
2. Ken Hinkleyย
Port Adelaide have routinely produced up & down seasons since Hinkley's first year in 2013, making finals at a 50 per cent rate and never more than twice in a row. They often look like a top four and even top-two team any given year but still are yet to make a grand final.
If they weren't already polarised enough, Port fans were dramatically conflicted by their sides' poor 2022 season in which they recorded 10 wins and finished 11th on the ladder. Some thought it was finally time for change while others held faith in their head coach, Ken Hinkley.
2023 will be Hinkley's final year under contract and one would think anything short of a preliminary final finish would surely end his tenure with the Power. A top four exit would still add further pressure, while a grand final appearance or victory would ensure his extension.
Time is running out for Ken, however. With Travis Boak, Tom Jonas, Charlie Dixon,ย Scott Lycett and others all approaching the tail-end of their careers, 2023 may be the final chance to squeeze what is left out of some of these players. Their list is not greatly improved from 2022, while Jason Horne-Francis and Junior Rioli will be valuable future assets, the losses of Robbie Gray and Karl Amon probably break even with regard to their 2023 chances.
This means a successful year for the Power must be the product of a quality coaching performance and the pressure will be on Ken Hinkley to deliver.
