Coach Hinkley Remains Optimistic About Dan Houston's Future at Port Adelaide
Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley is staying optimistic about the future of star defender Dan Houston, despite swirling speculation linking Houston to several Victorian clubs. Recent reports have suggested that Houston, who has been a dual All-Australian selection, has met with representatives from multiple AFL teams based in his home state of Victoria. These include Carlton, Collingwood, St Kilda, and the Western Bulldogs. The meetings have fueled speculation that Houston might be considering a return to Victoria, where he began his career with the Oakleigh Chargers.
However, Coach Hinkley remains confident that Houston will honor his contract with Port Adelaide, which runs until the end of the 2028 season. Hinkley addressed the media, reinforcing his belief that Houston will stay with the Power despite the current rumors. "I don't need to mention any more, do I, on Dan?" Hinkley remarked. "I'm only saying what I hear from Dan and what we expect. The reality is all I know is what has been said, what we believe."
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Hinkley also acknowledged that while unexpected events can occur, he has repeatedly stated that Houston is under contract and has expressed his love for the club. "Dan's contracted, he loves our footy club, and I expect him to be here next year," Hinkley reiterated. This sentiment aligns with Houston's own recent statements, where he declared his commitment to Port Adelaide during an interview on Adelaide radio station 5AA. Houston had firmly stated, "I am contracted and I absolutely love the footy club. I am not leaving next year."
At present, Houston is serving a five-game suspension, which has unfortunately ruled him out of Port Adelaide's ongoing finals campaign. Despite this, the club remains hopeful that he will return to contribute in the future.
The buzz around Houston's potential move has intensified as clubs like North Melbourne have reportedly shown strong interest. North Melbourne has even offered their first-round draft pick for the 2025 AFL Draft in a bid to secure Houston’s services. However, Port Adelaide’s preference seems to be for immediate draft picks, and they are weighing their options in light of this offer.
As the AFL trade period approaches, the situation remains fluid, but Hinkley’s assurances and Houston's own declarations of loyalty suggest that Port Adelaide will not be easily parted with their key defender. The coming weeks will likely reveal more about Houston’s final decision, but for now, the Power remain hopeful that their star player will continue to shine at Alberton.
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