CLUB champion Chad Cornes says his father, Graham, was the first man he spoke to when offered the role of Port Adelaide’s SANFL coach for 2016.
Graham, of course, coached Port Adelaide’s mortal enemies Glenelg and the Adelaide Crows.
But Chad, a 2004 premiership player with the Power, says his father was fully supportive of him taking on the Magpies coaching gig.
“Dad was the first person I rang and I said what would you think if I coached the Magpies?” Cornes said.
“He broke out laughing, but then I explained the role, the opportunity … He’s right behind the decision.”
Cornes was only days away from extending his contract as an assistant coach at the GWS Giants when he received a phone call from Ken Hinkley to discuss the possibility of his return to Alberton.
REACTION: Fans praise Cornes appointment
Having coached at a new AFL club, Cornes says his experience gathered working with a group of young and emerging players during the tough first years of the Giants will work to his advantage when in the Magpies role next year.
“They’re a different breed, the young guys these days,” Cornes said.
“Understanding that you have to treat different personalities differently, it’s not just one set way [to manage individual players].
“To be in that position, working with so many young guys puts me in good stead leading into this role.”
Although using his skills towards the development of young AFL listed players is important for Cornes as Magpies coach, winning will be his number one focus.
“I’ll be there to win. I think you’ve got to respect the Magpies brand, the supporters and the past legends of the club by winning. I see that as the number one focus,” Cornes said.
Cornes was also grateful for the mentorship that previous SANFL coach Garry Hocking has offered him during his transition into the role.
“He’s already said that he’ll give me a lot of help in just knowing the players, the game plan and the game style and what’s involved in being the senior coach of the Magpies.” Cornes said.
“To have him in your corner and behind you is a real bonus.”
Cornes wrote his first column for portadelaidefc.com.au earlier on Friday, telling supporters he would be “ruthless” as Port Adelaide’s SANFL coach.
