Tim Watson says Carlton’s appointment of Brian Cook as CEO will bring an immediate cultural shift at Ikon Park.
Cook is a key off-field acquisition for the Blues as they embark on a new era under president Luke Sayers.
Regarded as one of the best sports administrators in Australia, Cook has overseen five premierships – two at West Coast and three at Geelong – during his 30 years at AFL clubland.
But it’s what the 65-year-old brings off the field that will be crucial to Carlton improving on the field.
“What we know about ‘Cooky’ is that the culture they have built at Geelong has withstood the test of time and is really strong. It’s a really powerful organisation,” Watson told SEN Breakfast.
“People can have a crack at them about not winning flags, but they’ve been up there.
“It’s not just winning flags, it’s about the way the players and the club conduct themselves. That’s something he’s been the chief architect of, given the fact that he was the CEO there for a long time.
“That’s something that he will bring to Carlton immediately I would have thought.
“That’s a great get. That’s a great, great get.”
Could Cook’s appointment lead to a last-ditch attempt to lure four-time Hawthorn premiership coach Alastair Clarkson to Carlton?
Michael Voss and Adam Kingsley are reportedly vying for the senior coaching vacancy at the Blues.
“Congratulations to Carlton for being able to pull that together because now he (Cook) has the huge task, and this is as reported, they still believe they can get Al Clarkson,” Watson said.
“He can have one last swing at Al Clarkson, and he might be able to get him over the line.
“I know that having spoken to people over the weekend, they haven’t completely given up on him.”
Garry Lyon added: “Brian Cook’s probably the most important appointment they can have.
“That’s a big win for Luke Sayers. I think he needed a win, and he got one.”
Cook stepped down as Geelong CEO at the end of the 2021 season after 23 years in the job.
He officially starts his role at the Blues in mid-October.