Adam Kingsley admits he had concerns over the legitimacy of selection processes at Collingwood and Carlton as he pursued the senior coaching roles at the two AFL clubs.
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The shadow of Alastair Clarkson and Ross Lyon loomed large over the vacant positions for weeks before the two coaching heavyweights ruled themselves out of the running.
Richmond assistant Kingsley was on the short-list at both clubs but ultimately missed out as the Magpies appointed Craig McRae and the Blues went with Michael Voss.
"The reality is they had some really high-quality coaches available on the market and you kind of wonder whether or not processes are legitimate," Kingsley told SEN.
"Or are they just running it to be seen to be legitimate, but ultimately they've always got their man.
"Clearly if Clarko is available you're going to hire him, so why would you bother with anyone else? That is completely understandable.
"Ross Lyon, Nathan Buckley was even spoken about when I was midway through the Carlton process.
"There were some reservations, it's fair to say, but I was assured the process was legitimate and both processes were, from what I understand.
"The reality is I just missed out on them and got beaten by two better people at the moment. That's kind of sparked me into action."
Both Collingwood and Carlton have always remained adamant their selection processes were legitimate and thorough.
Kingsley said he received feedback from both selection panels that his lack of experience in running his own football department had counted against him.
It is something former Richmond VFL premiership coach McRae and ex-Brisbane coach Voss, who was also the senior assistant to Ken Hinkley at Port Adelaide, brought to the table.
Kingsley was stung by being overlooked and said he has considered coaching his own team at a lower level to gain experience.
However, he is comfortable he has the right support at Richmond to continue growing his attributes under triple-premiership mentor Damien Hardwick.
The 46-year-old will continue running the Tigers' back-line and team defence in 2022 and won't be deterred from chasing senior coaching jobs in future.
"The disappointment that ensues (from) missing out on a job that you really desire is quite strong," Kingsley said.
"Once you get over that, the reality is that I'm thereabouts but I'm not there.
"I've got work to do, so I get back to work and try to improve myself as a coach and the beauty about that is that in itself will improve our (Richmond) players and our footy club.
"Hopefully it makes Richmond stronger as well as myself."
Australian Associated Press
