The Shape of Modern Footy: AFL Teams Embracing Divergent Styles

As the 2026 AFL season reaches its midpoint, a notable trend has emerged on the pitch. Gone are the days when teams adhered to a single approach; today’s clubs are increasingly embracing styles that blend elements of “surge” and “control.” This shift reflects fundamental changes in how teams manage possession, scoring, and defense.

Hawthorn, the early-season leaders, have adapted their game plan to combine both surge and control. They emphasize handball and clever movement, setting a benchmark for others seeking to emulate their success. Sydney and Fremantle, currently at the top of the ladder, exemplify another approach: dominating possession in the forward half but struggling to convert it into sustained ball control.

This dichotomy has significant implications for how teams construct their game plans. Teams that focus on controlling possession tend to eschew handballs in favor of precision footy, stifling opponents’ attempts to do the same. Conversely, sides that opt for a surge-oriented approach often rely heavily on quick handballing to generate momentum and create scoring opportunities.

The statistics suggest teams are relying more heavily on handballs: handball meters gained have increased by 69 meters per game compared to last year, driven largely by Sydney’s aggressive style and the influence of several high-profile coaches. However, this trend raises questions about the efficacy of relying too heavily on a single approach. North Melbourne has shown adaptability in embracing both surge and control elements, drawing parallels with Alastair Clarkson’s tenure at Hawthorn.

Launch zones have become crucial components of modern footy strategy, as teams strive to maximize their scoring potential from various angles. While intercepts remain the primary source of points, their location and manner of acquisition vary significantly depending on team set-up. The defensive half has emerged as a key battleground, with teams adopting higher presses up the ground in an effort to win turnovers closer to goal.

GWS, Fremantle, and Sydney have successfully leveraged back-half scoring, while Collingwood’s chaotic style has yielded unexpected dividends when they manage to secure possession close to their goal. Conversely, some clubs – like Brisbane – continue to thrive off controlling tempo, often at the expense of more direct approaches.

The shift towards divergent styles raises questions about the viability of a middle ground. While centrism may still hold appeal, the rewards for embracing an extreme approach can be significant – if short-lived. As we hurtle towards the business end of the season, it’s clear that modern footy demands adaptability and creativity from teams.

The defensive aspect of footy has also undergone a subtle transformation, with teams developing novel approaches to mitigate opposing attacks. Zone defenses and presses have become increasingly prevalent, forcing clubs to reassess their priorities in terms of player deployment and energy allocation. Sydney and Fremantle’s dominance at the top of the ladder may ultimately prove ephemeral if they fail to adapt their game plans to counter emerging threats.

The 2026 season will be remembered for its innovative approaches, not just its thrilling matches. As teams continue to push boundaries and challenge conventional wisdom, one thing remains certain: modern footy is characterized by diversity and experimentation.