"My life’s shot": Clarkson bares all following North axing

Alastair Clarkson has bared all in his first interview since being sacked from his role at North Melbourne, believing that his and his family’s lives have been thrown into turmoil.

On Wednesday, the Kangaroos confirmed they have parted ways with the four-time premiership coach after four years of service despite his contract concluding next season.

Whilst the former Hawthorn coach had shown improvement in terms of wins throughout his time, North president Dr Sonja Hood and GM of Football Todd Viney conceded he was not able to keep up with the modern game.

Speaking with The Age’s Caroline Wilson on Friday night, the 58-year-old explained that the pair broke the news to him at his home the day before, admitting he was blindsided by the decision.

“In four years, they’ve never come to my house like that. In four years I’ve never had one formal performance review,” Clarkson elaborated.

“They said, ‘We can’t control what you’re going to say, Clarko, but can you be diplomatic? We know you’re going to have to talk at some stage, but we hope you don’t bag the club’. I never would have done that. They wanted me to be as dignified as possible.

“Any deficiencies I’ve got – and you know that I’ve got them – to be absolutely blindsided like that... I’ve got a daughter who works at Fox (Sports) News – can you imagine how she feels? How we all feel to be so publicly humiliated.”

One of the other criticisms laid at the feet of Clarkson was that he did not have the support of the players.

It was referenced in the press conference by Hood that the former North Melbourne player no longer had the belief of those within the club.

However, Clarkson disputes this, noting that several players had reached out to him following his departure.

“If you saw the text messages I’ve received in the last two days, you’d know how ridiculous that is,” he said.

“And the response from the players – and I had long meetings with the three key leaders and three older players – after they delivered the feedback, and I responded, were just so positive.”

As a result, Clarkson expressed his sorrow over losing his job.

“I feel like my life’s shot,” he declared.

The Kangaroos are now in the midst of looking for a coach ahead of the 2027 season.