Salary caps and drafts – plus extraordinary recruiting concessions – are supposed to stop dynasties in the AFL.

But even with expansion, some clubs have outsmarted the equalisation system. The Brisbane Lions were first to build a dynasty this century with three successive premierships from four consecutive grand finals. Then came Geelong, with three flags in five years between 2007-2011.

Rising Suns: Damien Hardwick and the young Gold Coast stars are on the brink of a meteoric rise.Credit: Marija Ercegovac

Hawthorn came from the bottom of the ladder under coach Alastair Clarkson, claiming the cup four times from 2008-2013. Richmond ended their misery with coach Damien Hardwick completing the club’s 10-year vision with three premierships from 2017-2020.

Dynasties still happen.

It may not be obvious, but Gold Coast are on the doorstep to greatness. The Suns are rising to build the next AFL dynasty.

Hardwick wisely deserted Richmond and arrived at the much-mocked expansion club with his impressive resume during the summer. He is poised to potentially become the AFL’s greatest coach in the modern era by adding to his three-flag collection.

With all the Suns have been handed to win the AFL’s battle north of the Murray, it is realistic that Hardwick can claim another two or three premierships. This would put him alongside legendary coaches Jock McHale and Norm Smith.

Last week, Hardwick sent a shockwave through the AFL by making a decisive blow at the selection table – he axed seven players.

QOSHE - A new force is emerging in the AFL. It’s bad news for the Bombers and Saints - Kane Cornes
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A new force is emerging in the AFL. It’s bad news for the Bombers and Saints

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11.04.2024

Salary caps and drafts – plus extraordinary recruiting concessions – are supposed to stop dynasties in the AFL.

But even with expansion, some clubs have outsmarted the equalisation system. The Brisbane Lions were first to build a dynasty this century with three successive premierships from four consecutive grand finals. Then came Geelong, with three flags in five years between........

© The Sydney Morning Herald


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