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.