Alastair Clarkson
Leadership Speaker, Former AFL Coach and Player
One of the most successful and respected coaches in AFL history, best known for leading the Hawthorn Hawks to four AFL Premierships. Widely regarded for his innovative coaching style and tactical acumen, he has revolutionised modern AFL coaching. His leadership and ability to adapt have earned him a reputation as one of the game's greatest strategic minds.
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Alastair Clarkson is one of the most renowned figures in modern AFL coaching, known for his innovative leadership and strategic approach to the game. As the former head coach of the Hawthorn Football Club, Alastair led the team to four AFL Premierships (2008, 2013, 2014, 2015) and cemented his legacy as the most successful coach in the club’s history. His tenure included a remarkable 26 finals appearances and a record 390 games as Hawthorn coach.
Renowned for his ability to lead change and adapt global sporting practices to AFL, Alastair was a trailblazer in sending coaches abroad to learn from the best in international sport. His expertise has made him a sought-after leadership speaker and consultant, particularly in areas of team culture, change management, and high-performance strategies.
A former player with North Melbourne and Melbourne, Alastair’s own career was just the beginning of his outstanding impact on Australian football. Outside of his football career, Alastair is passionate about education and community, holding degrees in sports science, business, and an MBA from Monash University, alongside study at Harvard and Stanford Universities.
In addition to his ambassadorial work for the AFL Coaches Association and the Tackle Your Feelings program, Alastair continues to inspire audiences with his insights into leadership, resilience, and performance both on and off the field.
