Clarkson will return to the coaches’ box after being diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome five weeks ago.
Alistair Clarkson will return as Hawthorn coach on Friday night after being out of action for five weeks due to illness.
The dual premiership winning coach was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome at the end of May and forced him to temporarily step down as senior coach since Round 11.
Hawthorn CEO Stuart Fox said Clarkson had steadily taken on more responsibilities over the past few weeks.
“In line with medical advice, Alastair has been involved around the Club over the past couple of weeks in a minor capacity while undertaking an active recovery,” Fox said.
“With endorsement from his doctors, Alastair will return to regular full-time coaching duties from today.
“We’re really pleased Alastair is healthy and ready to return to work as the team embarks on the second half of the 2014 season.
“We have been overwhelmed with the messages we’ve received from our members and fans wishing Alastair well and we thank everyone for their support.”
Fox thanked interim coach Brendon Bolton after he led the Hawks to five straight wins in Clarkson’s absence.
“The way our coaching team, playing group and football department staff have pulled together under Brendon Bolton’s leadership during Alastair’s absence has been outstanding,” Fox said.
“It is a credit to our people that this period has been managed so professionally and seamlessly, which has been a team effort from all involved,” he said.
