The grand final on September 30, 2023, showcased a stark contrast between the coaching strategies of Brisbane’s Chris Fagan and Geelong’s Chris Scott. Fagan celebrated a notable victory as his team triumphed over the Cats at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), while Scott faced criticism for decisions that seemed to undermine his team’s performance.
Fagan, at 64 years old, has cultivated a coaching philosophy centered on growth and resilience. Since taking the helm of the Brisbane Lions nine years ago, he has emphasized that winning is not just the goal but a learning experience. This mindset played a crucial role in the game, especially in the management of star player Lachie Neale. Neale, who had faced injury challenges, underwent extensive treatment, including over 60 hours in a hyperbaric chamber, to prepare for the match.
The decision to include Neale as a substitute was strategic. Fagan recognized the potential impact on team morale if Neale struggled early in the game. This approach paid off—Neale finished the match with 17 disposals, seven clearances, a goal, and seven score involvements. The Lions leveled the score at half-time and ultimately dominated the second half, underlining Fagan’s effective leadership.
In addition to Neale, Fagan’s ability to empower younger players has been pivotal. The Lions fielded eight players aged 22 or younger, including talents like the Ashcroft brothers and Ty Gallop. Their contributions on such a significant stage exemplify Fagan’s commitment to fostering a diverse team dynamic.
Conversely, Chris Scott‘s approach during the grand final drew scrutiny. Following the match, his comments regarding the substitute rule raised eyebrows. He appeared to question the fairness of Neale’s substitution, which many perceived as an attempt to deflect responsibility from his own decisions. Scott’s choice to keep Jeremy Cameron on the field despite a broken arm and the eventual substitution of Rhys Stanley created an imbalance that proved detrimental to the Cats’ performance.
Scott’s leadership faced further criticism for his post-game demeanor. Instead of acknowledging the tactical errors, he seemed to shift focus to external factors, which some observers interpreted as a lack of accountability. Effective leadership often involves taking responsibility, and on this occasion, Scott’s reaction fell short of that expectation.
As the dust settles from this year’s grand final, the contrasting coaching styles of Fagan and Scott provide valuable lessons in leadership and resilience. Fagan’s focus on growth and empowerment facilitated a triumphant outcome for the Brisbane Lions, while Scott’s missteps highlighted the importance of accountability in high-stakes situations. The grand final not only crowned Brisbane as champions but also illustrated the profound impact of coaching decisions in shaping the game’s narrative.
