Carlton President Stephen Kernahan issued the following statement in relation to Brett Ratten who will finish his Carlton coaching career in Sunday’s final game of the season;
The Club and Brett reached a mature decision this week following an open and honest discussion initiated by Brett following the disappointing loss to Gold Coast Suns last weekend.
Brett Ratten is a great Carlton man and his record highlights the important role he has played at the Club since he joined the Carlton under age development squads when he was still in High School. His outstanding record includes:
- 375 senior games in total:
- 255 games as a player and Sunday will be his 120th as senior coach
- Captain of the Club in 2002 and 2003
- 1995 Premiership Player
- Three-time Carlton Best & Fairest winner
- Life Member and inducted into the Carlton Hall of Fame in 1999
This year has been disappointing, however, but circumstances, in particular a horror run of injuries, have made 2012 a difficult season and have been considered when reviewing the lack of on-field success.
While acknowledging Brett’s coaching record in developing the team, the Carlton Board was concerned with the inconsistency of the team’s performances and the inability to defeat top eight, and in particular, top four sides.
The decision was not based on the Gold Coast Suns game last weekend; however this emphasised the problem with consistency that concerned the Board. Some good wins during the season were overshadowed by inconsistent performances and bad losses, including the round ten loss to Port Adelaide and the loss to Gold Coast.
The Club has not confirmed a replacement. However after the discussions with Brett and advising him of the decision we are now in a position to commence discussions with a number of experienced coaches.
We are very confident we will get the very best replacement, an experienced coach that will deliver long-term success for the Carlton Football Club.
