ST KILDA coach Ross Lyon has responded assertively to Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan’s critique of the Saints’ 2025 recruiting efforts, which Fagan described as a “danger for the game.” In an exclusive interview with AFL.com.au, Lyon questioned Fagan’s “motivations” and highlighted Brisbane’s own aggressive recruitment strategy, which included acquiring key players like Oscar Allen and Sam Draper, as well as top draft pick Dan Annable.
Lyon, who has been a senior coach for 16 years, expressed his disapproval of Fagan’s comments. “I could be wrong but in my 13 years of senior coaching, I don’t think I’ve ever commented on a specific opposition player in a derogatory sense,” Lyon stated. He further emphasized that he can only control his own actions and not those of others.
Recruitment Strategies Under Scrutiny
The exchange between Lyon and Fagan underscores a broader debate within the AFL regarding recruitment strategies and their impact on the competitive balance of the league. Lyon pointed out the irony in Fagan’s remarks by referencing historical player movements, such as Tony Lockett and Barry Hall’s transfers to Sydney, and Lachie Neale’s move from Fremantle to Brisbane.
“I know Carl (Dilena, St Kilda CEO) spoke to the operating environment which dictates the market and its supply and demand and restrictions and access to talent,” Lyon said. He noted that the introduction of free agency has significantly altered the landscape, allowing top players to move freely, often to already strong teams.
“When Brisbane’s list could be in decline they go and get the captain from West Coast and the No.1 player from Essendon as free agents,” Lyon remarked.
Fagan’s Concerns and Lyon’s Response
In early February, Fagan expressed his concerns to AFL.com.au, stating, “I’m hoping those numbers we saw last year, via St Kilda, don’t become a reality. I saw that as a bit of a danger for the game.” He argued that the best players should be the highest-paid, a sentiment not reflected in current practices.
Lyon, however, defended St Kilda’s approach, suggesting that Fagan’s comments might be an attempt to “weaponise the media” against the Saints. He highlighted the mental health pressures on players and coaches, noting the AFL Coaches Association’s concerns about these issues.
“I’m not sure what Chris’s motivations were, mental health of players is paramount and there is enough, and it is very topical,” Lyon said.
Potential Legal Challenges and Future Implications
Lyon warned that unless the AFL addresses the inequities created by current free agency and drafting rules, some clubs might consider legal action. “If the inequity stays that long I think conceivably there would be a legal challenge from a number of clubs that have been disaffected,” he stated.
Meanwhile, St Kilda faces its own challenges with player injuries. Lyon revealed that injury-prone full-forward Max King would not return to play until round four due to a calf issue. King has struggled with injuries, missing all of 2025 and playing only 23 games over the previous two seasons.
“It’s a two-week calf,” Lyon explained. “He will play football this year … it’s not unexpected he would have a soft tissue, it’s a slight calf.”
As the AFL season progresses, the debate over recruitment strategies and their implications for the league’s competitive balance is likely to continue. Both Lyon and Fagan’s comments reflect the ongoing tension between maintaining a fair playing field and the realities of a market-driven player acquisition system.
