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Hawthorn's favourite son to become a favourite Sun?

Expert
3rd September, 2017
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A proven premiership star, Luke Hodge makes his way into the backline. (Photo by Justine Walker/AFL Media)
Expert
3rd September, 2017
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We thought we had seen the last of Luke Hodge, but we may have been wrong, with reports suggesting he is considering coming out of retirement to play for the Gold Coast Suns.

Hodge seemed to have ended his 305-game Hawthorn career in Round 23 with a win over the Western Bulldogs, but was reportedly approached by Mark Evans at Gold Coast about a role that would see him play with the club for a year before transitioning into a coaching role.

“It’s my understanding Mark Evans has made personal contact with Luke Hodge over a position, which may involve him coming out of retirement and playing for at least a season,” said Sam McLure on SEN.

“He may or may not take up the offer, but it’s believed he is seriously considering it. He thought his days were over and he’s reconsidering what to do.

“People will deny this and I know Hodgey is finishing a book over the next week, he’s due to start in the media next season.

“He was also asked to be a part of the coaching selection panel, but the five man panel was confirmed over the weekend.”

It would be a major coup for the struggling Suns if they could secure Hodge, who no doubt has many AFL clubs interested in his services as a future coach.

The four-time premiership player, three-time premiership coach, two-time Norm Smith medallist would bring a wealth of experience to impart to the young Gold Coast players and no doubt have a significant impact on a club culture that has been widely criticised.

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For Hodge, the role would mean a new challenge and a chance to transition more gradually from playing towards coaching, as he would no doubt balance both responsibilities in 2018 before becoming a full-time coach in 2019 and beyond.

It would see him follow in the footsteps of long-term teammate Sam Mitchell, who made a similar move to join the West Coast Eagles for the 2017 season, before signing on for an assistant coaching role in 2018 and beyond.

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