Nathan Buckley has spoken for the first time since missing out on the inaugural Tasmania Devils coaching role, saying the decision is a "fork in the road" regarding his future in football.
Buckley was all-in on the Devils job, but missed out as Ken Hinkley was officially appointed on Monday.
He will remain at Geelong as an assistant coach.
“I heard from (Brendon) Gale yesterday afternoon. I had a missed call and then a text, because things were moving pretty quickly ... then I woke up this morning, and went to my job at Geelong,” Buckley said on Fox Footy's On The Couch.
“I think it's taken me a little bit of time to reflect, because I was really keen on it. I was in on it; the passion that you've heard from Kenny ... if you're going to go for a job, you've got to decide that you're all-in on it — and I was.
“I absolutely respect the process that the Devils have run, and I respect their decision with Ken. I think this is what a process is about; it's about an organisation and learning what its needs are ... I'm glad they found their man.
“It leaves me in a really exciting role at Geelong, which I've been at. The future there for me will inform my next step in footy ... it's a fork in the road, but I'm really grateful for where I'm at.”
Buckley was then quizzed over his desire to continue pushing for senior coaching opportunities.
"It's a bit early (to know what's next); it's only 24 hours since discovering. I was really deliberate in getting back into Geelong, and it was as much to give myself the very best chance to be ready to go for the Tasmania role — but now that's off the table,” Buckley continued.
“I'll be absolutely committed to what's going on at Geelong. I've got an option for an extra year there, and that's probably the most likely outcome. And if that's the worst thing that's come about through this process, then I'm honoured and grateful for that opportunity.
“I determined that (wanting to be a senior coach again) about 12 months ago, but that's what I believe that I'm capable of doing. That's what I want to do, but Tassie weren't the right fit.”
