Smart move by North.
Smart move by Clarko.
All depends a bit on how this is done. It isn't the early 1970s with the 10 year rule being brought in, this will likely take longer than Barassi going to North, but if they have a plan to build a team, if they have patience, they have potential. Lots of early draft picks, a few good players, a young list which can develop. The critical thing is not to expect too much too early. Finals in 2023? Yeah, doubt it. Manage expectations, solid build from where they are now and in a few years maybe finals, and contenders following that.
Don't particularly like or dislike North, although their attitude when we were in trouble still p!sses me off. The reality is that ambivalence is one of their problems, small supporter base and no-one else cares that much. But they will earn respect if they use the opportunity of getting Clarko in to do a proper build of a good team. The good sign is the 5 year deal, they are not delusional like Essendon, North know this will take time.
DS