Choco, Lade shown the door at Richmond
Recriminations for a horror season at Richmond have begun with former Port Adelaide premiership coach Mark Williams seemingly the highest profile victim.
Former Port mentor Mark Williams could be looking for a new role. Photo: Ben McMahon / AAP
Williams, who joined the Tigers from GWS to oversee the club’s development program, is reportedly among five assistant coaches to be shown the door – including his former Power ruckman Brendon Lade.
But senior coach Damien Hardwick – also a key member of Port’s 2004 flag team – is safe for now.
Nonetheless his team of support staff has reportedly been decimated with Fairfax reporting Ross Smith, former Carlton and Footscray player Mark P. Williams and forwards coach Greg Mellor will join Williams and Lade in not having their contracts renewed.
Hardwick has one year left to run on his contract after it was extended at the start of the season, and his position has been guaranteed for 2017.
The results of a review into the club’s dismal season is expected soon and further changes could be made.
List manager Francis Jackson is also believed to be under pressure.
The race to secure replacements is set to intensify as Brisbane searches for new football staff in the wake of Justin Leppitsch’s sacking yesterday.
-AAP
