Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan has a firm yet motivating message for his players as they head into their end-of-year break. With the 2025 AFL season commencing in early March, Fagan has emphasized the importance of balance over the holiday period.
“Enjoy Christmas but not too much,” he remarked, urging his players to prepare themselves mentally and physically for another demanding season. Having recently clinched the premiership, the team is setting its sights on achieving back-to-back titles, a goal Fagan believes is both challenging and exhilarating. “I’m sure the players will want to experience that feeling again. There’s nothing like it,” he added.
The Lions have just completed an intensive three-week pre-season training block and will return in January to ramp up preparations for their season opener against Geelong at the Gabba on March 6. “Time moves quickly,” Fagan noted, expressing hope that the celebrations and reflections on their grand final victory will be behind them by then, allowing the team to focus solely on the new season.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Fagan said, “We know we’re going to be hunted, but we’ve been in that position for a while now. It’s not new to us.” Despite the retirement of star forward Joe Daniher, Fagan is confident the Lions can remain strong contenders. “We’ve only lost Joe from our premiership team. We also have players returning from injuries and have added promising talent,” he said.
Among those set to make comebacks from knee reconstructions are Keidean Coleman, Tom Doedee, Linc McCarthy, and Darcy Gardiner. The team also welcomes draft picks Levi Ashcroft, Sam Marshall, and Ty Gallop, alongside experienced recruit Sam Day from the Gold Coast Suns. Although Ashcroft is recovering from shoulder surgery, Fagan is optimistic about the depth and quality of his squad.
Fagan highlighted the physical challenges faced during the pre-season, noting that 17 or 18 players were undergoing rehabilitation for various injuries, including shoulder surgeries and issues with knees, feet, and groins. Despite this, most players are already running and improving their fitness, a promising sign for the season ahead.
Adding to the positive momentum, the Lions have extended Fagan’s coaching contract until the end of 2027, a decision that Fagan deeply appreciates. “I’m grateful the club has faith in me to continue as coach,” he said, reflecting on his tenure since 2017. Looking forward, he is focused on driving the team’s ongoing improvement and ensuring a supportive environment for success. “The commitment from our players and the football department gives me confidence in the challenges that lie ahead,” Fagan concluded.