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.
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.
Kavvy
Guest
Certainly that god awful breakfast show
Cat
Roar Guru
Cats will let Motlop walk for whatever compo pick they get from the AFL.
Slane
Guest
Maybe they should Rookie list Marlon and collect the whole set?
Slane
Guest
Good call.
Slane
Guest
I'd love Motlop for free. I wouldn't want to spend picks or big cash money. He has a massive talent. If Geelong can't get the most out of him, nobody else will be able to.
Slane
Guest
I was thinking along the same lines. Desperation to land a 'big fish'. If a club like Geelong can't get the best out of Motlop, North haven't got a chance.
Martyn
Guest
Sounds like a Brad Hardy type story
Penster
Roar Guru
Where would The Roar be without you, Gene.
Cat
Roar Guru
Cat
Roar Guru
Nobody at the Cats will care
Brayden Rise
Roar Pro
Glorified runner is a brilliant term Paul D and yes, that is what Hodgey would be if he played. Look at the other two of the big draft in Luke Ball and Chris Judd? Been retired for years. Hodge was a champ but extracted everything from his body he could. Coaching is another question and he surely would be a great pick up in that regard for any club.
Paul D
Roar Guru
Gee it'd be a stiff contest to see who finished last in the time trial each season
Pope Paul VII
Guest
It's a bit of a family tradition.
Birdman
Guest
hmm...one way running both wings. Be afraid Port fans
Paul D
Roar Guru
I remember asking Josh if he was worried about North going out and buying a spud to be seen to be buying "someone", should they miss out on Kelly and Martin. Motlop? He should be worried. Really worried.
Brandon the 1st
Guest
I've heard Port are right into Motlop. Would be a good fit, Polec on one wing, Motlop on the other.
Gecko
Guest
I think Motlop would be a better fit for the Gold Coast, culturally.
Birdman
Guest
consolation 'prize' for missing out on Martin and Kelly? I wouldn't overpay if I was North
Brayden Rise
Roar Pro
Would be a shame if true with the Cats about to embark on a huge game and a shot at the Preliminary Final. Surely a time for his manager to keep a lid on it.
Slane
Guest
Anybody else hearing Motlop to North rumors today?