Voss pinpoints one ‘fear’ in Carlton coaching hunt
Former Carlton coach Michael Voss expects interim Josh Fraser to be interviewed for the full-time position, although recent history may see the Blues pivot elsewhere, he says.
While Fraser ruled himself out of becoming Carlton’s next full-time coach when taking over from Voss, the Blues’ record since his instalment has been impressive.
Michael Voss during his time as Carlton coach. Getty
Carlton could have a chance of a wildcard berth following five consecutive wins under Fraser, after they started the season 1-8.
However, those in charge of picking the next coach could be spooked by the way things went last time they chose a successful interim to lead the club.
David Teague won the job full-time after a strong finish to the season in 2019 following Brendon Bolton’s sacking.
However, Teague’s tenure fizzled and he lasted just two seasons before being axed at the end of 2021, creating the opportunity for Voss.
Speaking for the first time since his interview with AFL.com.au on the day he was sacked, Voss said the club’s history with interim coaches may influence who they select.
“The only reason you don’t entertain it is maybe there is a fear of recurrence of it not working in the past. Therefore, we don’t go for it again,” Voss told 3AW.
“There’s the interim coach philosophy and then the circumstances that are presenting themselves now, and I would have thought looking from afar, I would be surprised if he wasn’t put through the process at the very least.”
Voss will return to commentary duties with Fox Footy. He has ruled out a return to coaching.
He said taking in the action from the outside is “difficult to watch”.
“Some of it’s difficult to watch because you’re not there,” Voss said of Carlton’s surge in form since he quit.
“You’ve invested five years of your time and effort, sweat, blood, tears into that group.
“On another level, it’s hugely rewarding.”
He added: “Making the decision when we did, the interest was about me and only about me. You’re sitting back going, ‘That’s disappointing’, but it was about the club, creating some freedom, maybe relieving the pressure valve a little bit.
Josh Fraser and Flynn Young celebrate a win over Essendon. AFL Photos via Getty Images
“Giving time on season so they have enough runway to get something out of the year, and they have done that very well, and for the club to make decisions they need to for the future…
“Did I think they would win five in a row? No, probably not.”
While there’s a level of uncertainty from club officials, Fraser has the backing of the players.
“He will make a great senior coach one day,” Jagga Smith said on Wednesday.
“He’s been amazing for us players.
“He has the sort of values and qualities that would make a good senior coach.
“He’s very level-headed, keeps it very simple, and us players love playing for him.”
