THE RETENTION of coach Ken Hinkley was a major reason Port Adelaide had a successful NAB AFL Trade Period, says star forward Chad Wingard.
After crashing out in the first week of finals this year, the Power were aggressive during the trade and free agency period, netting Lion Tom Rockliff, Demon Jack Watts and Cat Steven Motlop in a bumper haul.
Wingard believes if the board didn't show faith in Hinkley to extend his stay at Alberton until the end of 2021, Port may have been unable to lure those big names to assist with its premiership ambitions.
"No, I don't think they would have (joined the Power)," Wingard told 3AW on Thursday.
"You don't want to come to a system you're not sure on, and they saw the belief in Kenny and the belief in the playing group.
"The players believe in Kenny and the coaching group we've got there.
"So, for the board to back Kenny in after a good year but a disappointing end was good to see, and they know we're capable of getting what they want."
With Wingard in camp with the Australian team ahead of Saturday's second Virgin Australia International Rules Series Test against Ireland in Perth, the playmaker said he's keen to meet his new teammates when he starts pre-season training.
He revealed one recruiting mission may have started back when the Irish hosted the Australians back in 2013.
"I think (Travis Boak) had a lot to do with getting Rockliff over because they were mates from International Rules (last time)," Wingard said.
"Motlop (was enticed) with the Aboriginal programs we run, and club history with his family.
"And I'm excited to see what Jack Watts has to offer."
With the Aussies holding a slight lead after defeating the visitors by 10 points in Adelaide last weekend, Wingard said the wet weather forecast for Perth could have the Irish feeling like they're back in the Emerald Isle.
"It's going to be tough, the conditions will suit them with the possibility of rain and 23 degrees," he said.
"They'll be used to that type of weather, so it will be another challenge for our skills trying to use that ball.
"We're pumped to have a go at it, but it's going to be pretty tough."
More on portadelaidefc.com.au...
