St Kilda coach Ross Lyon has responded to Brisbane Lions’ coach Chris Fagan’s criticism of the Saints’ 2025 recruitment strategy, which Fagan labeled a “danger for the game”. Speaking to AFL.com.au, Lyon questioned Fagan’s motivations, highlighting Brisbane’s own high-profile acquisitions, including Oscar Allen and Sam Draper, as well as securing top draft pick Dan Annable after winning a second consecutive premiership.
Lyon expressed disbelief at Fagan’s comments, stating, “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.” He emphasized the irony in Fagan’s remarks, pointing out past instances where players like Tony Lockett and Barry Hall moved to Sydney under lucrative deals.
Recruitment Dynamics and Market Forces
Lyon’s comments come amidst a broader debate on the AFL’s recruitment dynamics and market forces. He noted that St Kilda’s CEO, Carl Dilena, had addressed the issue by discussing market dictates and the changing landscape of player acquisition. “The coin has flipped,” Lyon remarked, referencing the financial dynamics of player contracts and free agency.
Lyon also drew parallels with international sports leagues, suggesting that the AFL’s current system allows top clubs to further strengthen their rosters, potentially at the expense of competitive balance. “I’m not perfect in this, but overseas, I think the NFL and NBA don’t let them go to the top four clubs,” he said, pointing to the example of Tom Lynch joining the reigning premiers, the Richmond Tigers.
Fagan’s Concerns and Lyon’s Counterarguments
In early February, Fagan voiced concerns about the financial implications of St Kilda’s recruitment strategy, suggesting it could skew the competition. “I’m hoping those numbers we saw last year, via St Kilda, don’t become a reality,” Fagan stated, emphasizing the need for top players to receive commensurate pay.
Lyon countered by questioning whether Fagan’s comments were an attempt to “weaponise the media” against St Kilda’s recruitment. He highlighted the mental health challenges faced by players and coaches, noting the AFL Coaches Association’s concerns about the pressures within the sport.
Legal Challenges and Competitive Balance
Lyon warned that unless the AFL addresses the disparities in free agency and drafting, 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 asserted.
He also criticized the AFL’s focus on supporting northern state teams, which he believes has disrupted competitive balance. “For whatever reason, the AFL has chosen its expansion to allow change to the competitive balance and priorities to the northern development,” Lyon said, calling for a restoration of equity.
Injury Setback for Max King
Amidst the recruitment debate, Lyon provided an update on the fitness of injury-prone full-forward Max King, who will not return to play until round four due to a calf injury. King missed the entire 2025 season and played sparingly in the previous two years.
“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. He was aiming for round zero or one, we think it’s round four. And then from there we have a decision: is it VFL or AFL because he has missed a lot of work.”
As the AFL season progresses, the debate over recruitment strategies and competitive balance is likely to continue, with clubs and coaches navigating the complexities of player acquisitions and market dynamics.
