Alastair Clarkson's 'embarrassing' admission about absence from North Melbourne
The North Melbourne coach will return to the hot-seat this weekend when the Kangaroos take on the Demons.
North Melbourne coach Alastair Clarkson has admitted he found it 'a little embarrassing' to take leave from his position earlier this year to look after his mental health, before realising that doing so was the best thing he could have done for himself. Clarkson stepped away amid the mounting furore surrounding the AFL's investigation into allegations of racism stemming from his time as coach of Hawthorn, before he, Chris Fagan and Jason Burt ultimately had no adverse findings made against them.
All three had vehemently denied the allegations, with the long-running saga taking an undeniable mental toll on all involved. Clarkson announced he would return to his position as head coach for this weekend's match against Melbourne a fortnight ago, resuming the reigns from interim head coach Brett Ratten.
WOW: Jesinta Franklin's revelation about Buddy after 'emotional' retirement call
'NOT HAPPY': Nick Daicos called out by AFL great over 'selfish' act
The 55-year-old penned a letter to North Melbourne members that was published on Tuesday evening, giving more details about the reasons for him stepping away and opening up about the personal burden the investigation placed on him. Clarkson formally stepped away from the Kangaroos on May 18.
The Kangaroos have lost 17 consecutive games since winning two matches under Clarkson earlier this season, another difficult season that has prompted calls for AFL assistance. Clarkson said his time away had been somewhat 'isolating', but crucial in restoring his capability to coach to the best of his ability.
"The time away from the club has been difficult but imperative," Clarkson. "Stepping aside was challenging, isolating, confronting and even a little embarrassing.
"I've now come to realise that nothing is embarrassing when it comes to addressing your physical and mental wellbeing."
Alastair Clarkson thanks doctors for help during AFL leave
The four-time premiership coach said he had received a power of assistance from North Melbourne's medical staff. He wrote that he had been motivated to take the break after it became increasingly clear what the true toll of the investigation actually meant for him.
"Ten weeks ago I came to the realisation I needed to be genuine to myself, my family and my football club and acknowledge those priorities were not being met," he wrote. "As a result, I needed to remove myself from the football treadmill.
"(Wife) Caryn and I were getting warning signals regarding my physical and mental wellbeing on numerous occasions, and May 17 was the day of realisation that I could only invest in my family, my club and my community if I got myself back to full health. With the help of Dr David Cahill, Dr Peter Parker and Professor Steve Davis, we have put in place strategies that have been pivotal to my progress, and these are ongoing needs I endeavour to address moving forward.
"Ironically, returning to coaching our club is a very important part of that process. The North Melbourne Football Club has confronted many hurdles in its existence. Our members and supporters have consistently maintained faith in tough times and found a way to rise above these challenges.
"That care has been extended to me again in these past three months and I am forever grateful for the unwavering support I have received from North Melbourne, my family and friends."
With AAP
Sign up to our newsletter and score the biggest sport stories of the week.
