Geelong confirms new contract for Scott

GEELONG CEO Steve Hocking believes Chris Scott is among the best coaches in the competition, saying the premiership mentor will have his contract extended past 2022.

Reports emerged in early October that Scott would sign a new two-year deal, however Hocking’s acknowledgement is the first official confirmation.

Hocking left his previous role at the AFL and recently joined the club as Brian Cook’s replacement.

Scott’s contract was seen by many to be the first issue Hocking would need to solve, with opinion divided on the 45-year-old coach.

Geelong’s game style has been found wanting under finals pressure during Scott’s tenure, and the lack of premierships since 2011 means some don’t think he has what it takes.

However, he comfortably has the best winning record of any coach in the game at almost 70 per cent.

Hocking appears to favour the latter stat, telling the Herald Sun what Scott does is “exceptional”.

“We are working through that with Chris currently. We are looking to extend him,” Hocking said.

“He will be extended. There is a contract in place for 2022 but we are committed to Chris.

“The big thing with Chris is, and I have worked right across 18 clubs, so I think I am reasonably well placed to make this comment, he is in the top three or four coaches across the competition.

“If you have a look tactically at what he does game day, it’s exceptional.”

The club recently lost assistants Matthew Scarlett, Corey Enright and Matthew Knights as the Cats rebuild around Scott.

Eddie Betts and Geelong greats Harry Taylor and James Kelly have all accepted roles with the club for 2022.

– BY SEB MOTTRAM/ SEN