Port Adelaide and Ken Hinkley have officially agreed to terms on a two-year extension.
In a decision that puts an end to weeks of speculation. Hinkley now has a contract until at least 2025 at Alberton.
He’s in the midst of his 11th season at the Power and chairman David Koch says the club unanimously backs Hinkley as the right man.
Two more for Ken 🤝
— Port Adelaide FC (@PAFC) August 15, 2023
Ken Hinkley has agreed to a contract extension as senior coach until the end of 2025 ✍️
📝 | https://t.co/3eGEaEeGTA pic.twitter.com/UO2QthzEJO
“The Board and management of the Port Adelaide Football Club are totally aligned in our view that Ken Hinkley is the best person to coach this playing group moving forward,” Koch began in a lengthy club statement.
“Following a thorough process and recommendation by the Football Strategic Committee, the Port Adelaide board unanimously endorsed Ken’s extension.
“At the start of the season we provided Ken and the program with the space and time to coach and perform without distraction. We’ve seen strong progression and development of our playing group and the program has continued to evolve and improve.
“Our team last Sunday was the third youngest of any AFL team this round. We have great confidence in what this playing group can achieve, this year and into the future, with Ken at the helm.
“We believe confirming Ken’s contract extension now provides our football program with confidence and certainty heading into an exciting finals campaign. Our win on Sunday locked away a top four finish providing a strong platform heading into September.
“At Port Adelaide there are high expectations every year and we will always make decisions based on what we believe is going to provide the best opportunity for success.
“Ken has reshaped our playing list a number of times across the last decade and has built a connection with the playing group that is very real and powerful. It is clear our players have bought into Ken’s vision.
“We’re delighted that Ken will be our senior coach until at least the end of 2025.”
Hinkley added that he never had any doubts on re-signing at the club he’s led since 2013.
“I said it a couple of weeks ago, and I’ve said it many times before, I care deeply for this playing group and football club,” Hinkley said.
“Not for one moment do I take coaching this great football club for granted. It’s a privilege and I thank David and the Board for their ongoing support and belief in our football program.”
Port Adelaide is expected to hold a press conference on Tuesday afternoon.