The Fremantle Dockers are gearing up for the AFL finals, and their approach to the upcoming games is a testament to their pragmatic mindset. Despite the looming grand final, the team is treating each match, including their upcoming trip to the MCG, as a regular season game.
This mindset is largely attributed to the leadership of Justin Longmuir, who has steered the Dockers since 2020. Longmuir's philosophy is straightforward: no dress rehearsals, no special treatment for the MCG.
"We feel like we've played there enough, had good experiences, had some average experiences there, but beaten teams that have been on top of the ladder," Longmuir said. "We feel like it's not a burden going to the MCG now. [We] go to Melbourne every second week, nearly, so we feel like that's not a burden either."
This approach is a stark contrast to the typical build-up to a grand final, where teams often treat the lead-up games as crucial dress rehearsals. However, Longmuir believes that the Dockers' experience at the MCG, including both successes and setbacks, has prepared them well for any challenges that lie ahead.
The game against Melbourne on Saturday, at 1:15 pm, is a prime example of this mindset. It mirrors the grand final start time, but Longmuir remains focused on the task at hand.
"We're going over there to give our best and all we've got, to play and improve our footy against Melbourne, who we know have played some really good footy there," he said. "[It would] be disrespectful to this game if we got ahead of ourselves."
This pragmatic approach extends to the team's strategy for the finals. Despite a recent AFL memo warning clubs about resting players, Longmuir has no plans to do so, prioritizing the team's overall preparation and integrity.
"I understand that they want to make sure the integrity of every game is there and I get that," he said. "I also think that it's the club's responsibility to make sure that we're as best prepared to go as long in the season as we can."
The Dockers' focus on the present, rather than the future, is also evident in the case of Jaymie Graham, an assistant coach who is in the running for the head coaching roles at Essendon and Carlton.
Graham's potential departure is a delicate matter, but Longmuir is confident that it won't distract the team. "I've spoken to him regularly about it … we're colleagues, we're pretty good mates away from work, so yeah, of course I've spoken about it," Longmuir said.
"I haven't had to speak to him about getting the balance right. He's professional, he understands his responsibilities at the club, and he's done a great job of managing that."
Longmuir's faith in Graham's ability to manage both his current role and potential future opportunities is a testament to the team's cohesive and professional culture.
In conclusion, the Fremantle Dockers' approach to the AFL finals is a refreshing blend of pragmatism and professionalism. By treating each game as a regular season match, they maintain their focus and integrity, setting a high standard for the entire league.
