Why the Cats are Chasing the AFL Flag in 2025

The Rise and Evolution of Geelong Under Chris Scott

The landscape of Australian rules football is characterised by the cyclical nature of team fortunes, with clubs consistently navigating the highs and lows of competition. However, since Chris Scott took the helm as head coach of the Geelong Cats, the team has largely bypassed the lower tiers of the ladder, establishing a remarkable consistency rarely seen in the league’s history.

Celebrating a Milestone

Recently, Scott celebrated his 350th game in charge of the Cats, achieving an impressive 237 victories along the way. While this milestone is noteworthy, Scott has emphasised that the connections and relationships he has forged with players and fans are of greater significance to him. In his own words, he expressed gratitude towards the Geelong football community, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout his tenure.

Geelong’s Continued Championship Aspirations

As the Cats continue their quest for premiership glory, their resurgence has been fuelled by a blend of seasoned stars and emerging talents. Scott’s adaptive coaching style has been pivotal, with strategic shifts made for the 2025 season that distinguish this team from the premiership-winning side of 2022. Although the premiership trophy is not currently held at Kardinia Park, the Cats are poised to have a considerable impact on the finals race come September.

Scott’s Tactical Mastery

Scott’s reputation as a tactical genius is well earned, garnering admiration from media, former players, and fans alike. Yet, he often remains tight-lipped about his tactical approach. When pressed for details after a recent match against Brisbane, he maintained his preference for secrecy regarding game strategies. This enigmatic nature contrasts with the insights offered by other coaches, such as Simon Goodwin of Melbourne, who acknowledged Geelong’s multifaceted offensive capabilities.

The Cats’ Strategic Flexibility

The hallmark of Geelong’s success this season lies in their ability to adapt their gameplay from week to week. The Cats are adept at varying their ball movement speed and can switch tactics seamlessly. For example, in a recent match against the Demons, Geelong recorded an impressive 165 marks, with 148 being uncontested. However, a week later against Adelaide, the Cats managed only 73 marks yet still secured victory.

Scott’s occasional glimpses into his tactical decisions reveal a thoughtful approach to matchups. In one game, he placed Coleman Medal leader Jeremy Cameron in the centre square, showcasing his willingness to experiment strategically, even if the outcome did not yield immediate success.

Innovative Use of Tall Forwards

Geelong’s forward structure is notable for its unconventional use of tall players. Cameron, for instance, has been positioned higher up the ground, serving as a link option rather than merely a target for contested marks. This strategic placement creates mismatches for opposing defenders, forcing them into difficult decisions that can disrupt their defensive setups.

Other tall forwards like Shannon Neale and Oliver Henry also play pivotal roles in stretching defences and creating space for their teammates. This flexibility in positioning is a critical aspect of Geelong’s game plan, allowing them to exploit weaknesses in rival defences effectively.

Consistent Principles Amidst Change

While the Cats display a remarkable ability to adapt their tactics, certain principles remain foundational to their identity. Notably, Geelong prioritises ball movement by foot, leading the league in kick-to-disposal ratios. They also excel in generating ruck contests and scoring from stoppages, reflecting a strong emphasis on territory and quick transitions.

The team’s defensive strategies are equally sophisticated. Rather than focusing solely on winning the ball at the contest, Geelong aims for quality exits and efficient opportunities to attack, a philosophy that has garnered respect from across the league.

Navigating the Challenges of Finals

Despite their impressive record under Scott during the regular season, the Cats have faced scrutiny regarding their performance in finals. The competition has become increasingly competitive, with the margins between victory and defeat razor-thin. Scott acknowledges that recent years have posed greater challenges, with luck playing a significant role in a team’s success.

As the Cats prepare for the finals, the debate continues over the ideal approach for success. Some advocate for a flexible game plan that can adapt to different opponents, while others prefer a more consistent strategy. With his ability to innovate and play the percentages, Scott is determined to lead Geelong to further success and perhaps another premiership in the years to come.