Ken Hinkley "Shamed" and "Exploited" by AFL Over Fine and Promotional Use
Former Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley has stated he felt "shamed" and "exploited" by the Australian Football League (AFL) concerning a $20,000 fine imposed in 2024.
Fine Details
The fine was issued for conduct deemed unbecoming, following Hinkley's post-match interactions with Hawthorn players after a semifinal. During this incident, Hinkley, whose team had secured a three-point victory, engaged in verbal exchanges and directed an aeroplane gesture towards player Jack Ginnivan as teams departed Adelaide Oval.
Promotional Use and Hinkley's Reaction
In 2025, the AFL utilized imagery from this incident to promote a rematch between Port Adelaide and Hawthorn during that season's Gather Round.
Hinkley expressed that while he acknowledged his mistake and was embarrassed by his own behaviour, the AFL's subsequent promotional use of the event felt like a misuse, especially given their initial moral stance on his actions.
He also suggested that the severity of the fine might have been influenced by other issues during his 13-year tenure as Port Adelaide coach.