After eight years and two premierships as senior coach of the Adelaide Crows AFLW side, Matthew Clarke is heading to the bay as Glenelg's senior coach.
After Clarke's 258-game playing career, he rejoined the Crows as a ruck coach and later as a midfield development coach, before he became the head coach of the Crows AFLW side in 2018.
He led the Crows to two AFLW premierships, the first in 2019 and the second in 2022. He was awarded life membership at the Crows in 2024 for his time as a player and his commitment to their AFLW program.
Clarke stood down from his role after the Crows' 11-point loss to Melbourne in the semi-finals this season.
Club President David Whelan spoke about Clarke:
"Matthew brings outstanding football knowledge and leadership, developed through a long and respected career in the AFL both as a player and as a coach, and more recently through coaching in the AFLW," Whelan said.
"We are thrilled to welcome someone of his calibre who understands and values the strong culture that defines our club. Just as important is Matthew's alignment with what makes Glenelg unique: our traditions, passionate people, and genuine commitment to success both on and off the field."
"We believe he will be an outstanding fit for our football club as we look to the future."
Glenelg lost the 2025 SANFL grand final to Sturt, and will look to bring success back to the club after winning the 2023 and 2024 deciders.
Clarke is looking forward to the 2026 season.
"‘It's going to be a lot of fun, I reckon. Glenelg is obviously a Club that's got really rich history and has had a period of really good success over the last couple of years. I'm looking forward to playing a role within that," Clarke said.
