Nathan Buckley has transparently spoken for the first time since Tasmania named Ken Hinkley as their inaugural coach on Monday, labelling his non-selection as a “fork in the road” before expressing his excitement ahead as an assistant coach at Geelong.

The AFL’s 19th team officially unveiled Hinkley as its first senior coach on Monday, signing a five-year deal in a historic moment for the ‘Apple Isle’ that saw him pip both Buckley and 2012 Sydney premiership coach John Longmire for the role.

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Speaking to Fox Footy’s On The Couch on Monday night, the former Collingwood mastermind was humble in his acceptance of Tasmania’s decision to appoint the former Power leader.

“I heard from (Brendon) Gale yesterday afternoon. I had a missed call and then a text, because things were moving pretty quickly … then I woke up this morning, and went to my job at Geelong,” Buckley said.

“I think it’s taken me a little bit of time to reflect, because I was really keen on it. I was in on it; the passion that you’ve heard from Kenny … if you’re going to go for a job, you’ve got to decide that you’re all-in on it — and I was.

“I absolutely respect the process that the Devils have run, and I respect their decision with Ken. I think this is what a process is about; it’s about an organisation and learning what its needs are … I’m glad they found their man.

“It leaves me in a really exciting role at Geelong, which I’ve been at. The future there for me will inform my next step in footy … it’s a fork in the road, but I’m really grateful for where I’m at.”

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After nine at a half seasons at the helm for Collingwood between the years of 2012-21, Buckley has entered the media realm as one of Fox Footy’s best analysts and special comments personnel.

As the prospect of being the Devils’ inaugural head coach loomed, the 2003 Brownlow Medal joint-winner stepped back into club land, joining Geelong as an assistant coach in October last year.

“It’s a bit early (to know what’s next), it’s only 24 hours since discovering. I was really deliberate in getting back into Geelong, and it was as much to give myself the very best chance to be ready to go for the Tasmania role — but now that’s off the table,” Buckley continued.

“I’ll be absolutely committed to what’s going on at Geelong. I’ve got an option for an extra year there, and that’s probably the most likely outcome. And if that’s the worst thing that’s come about through this process, then I’m honoured and grateful for that opportunity.

“I determined that (wanting to be a senior coach again) about 12 months ago, but that’s what I believe that I’m capable of doing. That’s what I want to do, but Tassie weren’t the right fit.”