Hawthorn Assistant Coach - Defence Ross Smith has informed the Club that he will not seek an extension to his coaching contract beyond this season so that he may pursue other opportunities.
 
Smith started at the Club in January 2005, working initially as Opposition Analyst.
 
From 2006 to 2011, Smith primarily coached the defenders and made a significant contribution to the Club’s initial development phase, its assault at the 2008 premiership and recent drive to again push towards the top of the ladder.
 
After seven years of service, Smith departs Hawthorn on good terms having expressed a desire for change and new opportunity, which the Club supported.  
 
In farewelling Smith, Clarkson wished him well and thanked him for his time with the Club.
 
"Ross has been a great servant of our Club as an assistant coach over a period of seven years, which is a long time in footy," said Clarkson.
 
“We will miss his insight, his sense of humour and his outstanding work with our players and coaches.”
 
"I would like to thank him for his excellent contribution to Hawthorn Football Club and wish him and his family well in the future," added Clarkson.  
 
Smith came to the Hawks having served as an assistant at the Western Jets in 2004, the Kangaroos in 2000, Geelong Football Club in 1999 and as senior coach for the Bendigo Diggers in 1998.
 
He also led ACT team Ainslie to a premiership in 1997 as captain-coach, following a decorated playing career at North Melbourne from 1984-96. The hardened defender played 224 games for the Kangaroos, represented Victoria three times and toured Ireland with the Australian team in 1990.