John Hutchinson says Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold will inspire his coaching career as the curtain falls on the Mariners’ captain’s playing career this weekend.
Hutchinson signs off on his roller-coaster 18-year career this Saturday in a testimonial match at Pluim Park, Lisarow kicking off at 6pm.
For the Morwell-born midfielder, it’ll be an emotional afternoon as some familiar faces line up with and against him.
ARTICLE: Hutchinson Testimonial team announced
Players will come from all over the globe to be a part of the testimonial including defender Chris Doig who is flying from Scotland to be a part of the day.
After that, Hutchinson, 35, will focus on next season at the Mariners as an assistant to Tony Walmsley.
“I had Lawrie [McKinna], then Arnie and then [Phil Moss]. I learned a great deal off Arnie,” Hutchinson told www.a-league.com.au.
“Arnie for me is still my mentor. I still call him and get advice off him.
“Even when he was at Japan and now at Sydney, he’s always been there for me, I’ve always called him and asked him for advice.
“To be honest I’m built like Arnie. I’m the same discipline, the same coaching style.
“Maybe I might be Arnie 2.0!”
Hutchinson’s wife Kate is looking forward to a new life for her husband now that she’s got over the initial disbelief at his retirement.
“I was shocked, I was a little worried but then I got excited about the prospect of the coaching career,” she said.
“I think he’ll be extremely good at it. He’s working hard at it now and we’re just looking onwards and upwards.”
Though she conceded being a player was less complicated than working on the coaching side.
“A lot more work so far. Computer work, office work, man-management work…”
