I absolutely take it back if it wasn't paid for, it was mentioned a number of time of socials that Hardwick was over their learning from other clubs so I'm assuming based off that information he was working / learning in some capacity which isn't a personal holiday. For how hard and long AFL coaches work it would surprise me if Hardwick or any coach would pay their own way to do this type of stuff.
He was late to join the pre season.
I feel it's picky but things get out under a microscope when you've won 1 game in after 5 rounds and our game plan doesn't look to have evolved, improved and our fitness/skills look well behind others.
Lots of people in lots of industries do extra personal development stuff which they pay for. It is very common these days.
And it is a very nice little tax deduction. One would hope former accountant Dimma would know that
That he was at other sporting Clubs/organisations just highlights in the sporting industry the contacts available. I doubt very much there would be a cost involved. Doing a course at one of universities like he did at the end of 2016 is different, absolutely would very a cost.
On being late to join pre-season he has done this the last few years, club gives him extra time off. Nothing new there.
Agree the microscope is on after the start we have had and deservedly so. But the focus on the things that are clearly wrong e.g. game style, injuries. Focusing on him taking an extended break isn't the issue IMHO
