In the realm of Australian rules football, where grudges and rivalries run deep, this week's 'Nine Things We Learned' offers a captivating glimpse into the intricate dynamics of the sport. As the 2026 season unfolds, it's evident that certain players are not just rising to the occasion but are also carrying the weight of past grievances. Let's delve into the heart of this week's insights, where grudges and resilience intertwine with the ebb and flow of the game.
A Grudge-Holder's Triumph
Sam Collins, a Gold Coast full-back, has been on a mission since his delisting by Ross Lyon at Fremantle in 2017. Collins, a player who holds a grudge, has been vocal about his disdain for Lyon's opinions. However, in a remarkable turn of events, Collins starred for the Suns in their victory over the Saints, showcasing his resilience and determination. His performance, marked by 10 intercepts and a brick wall-like defense, serves as a testament to the power of personal grievances fueling athletic excellence. This incident raises a deeper question: Can past grievances become a driving force for athletic achievement?
Resilience and Redemption
Michael Frederick, a half-forward who suffered an ankle injury during the pre-season, made a significant statement in the highest-rated game of his career. Frederick's clutch performance, including two critical running goals in the final quarter, demonstrated his resilience and determination to bounce back from a night to forget in last year's elimination final. This comeback story highlights the importance of resilience in sports, where overcoming personal setbacks can lead to remarkable comebacks. It also raises a deeper question: Can resilience be a catalyst for athletic redemption?
The Unstoppable Cripps
Patrick Cripps, the Carlton skipper and two-time Brownlow medallist, reminded everyone of his capabilities against the Lions. In a spirited 11-point loss, Cripps produced his best performance of 2026, showcasing his ability to influence games with 32 disposals, nine clearances, and eight score involvements. This resurgence, coming in one of Carlton's strongest performances of a difficult 1-8 campaign, underscores the importance of resilience and determination in sports. It also raises a deeper question: Can resilience be a turning point in a player's career?
A Mid-Season Discovery
The Western Bulldogs have had a challenging season, but the discovery of Michael Sellwood has been a highlight. Sellwood, a tough-as-nails defender, has looked right at home since making his debut in Opening Round. His career-best performance against Port Adelaide, including 17 disposals and six intercept marks, showcases the importance of mid-season discoveries in sports. It also raises a deeper question: Can mid-season discoveries become game-changers?
Execution vs. Effort
Essendon's inability to convert territory into scoreboard pressure remains an Achilles' heel, despite dominating key metrics against the Giants. Coach Brad Scott noted that while effort is present, 'soft goals' and a lack of polish inside the forward half continue to separate his side from the competition's elite. This highlights the importance of execution in sports, where effort alone may not be enough to bridge the gap between good and great. It also raises a deeper question: Can execution be taught or is it an innate quality?
The Value of Returning Players
Jake Bowey's return to the AFL was evidence of his value coming out of defense for Melbourne. With 26 disposals and 575 meters gained in Melbourne's 32-point win over West Coast, Bowey was instrumental in the side's devastating transition play. This underscores the importance of returning players in sports, where their experience and expertise can make a significant impact. It also raises a deeper question: Can returning players become game-changers?
Reassessing Backline Structure
Collingwood needs to reassess its backline structure, as the Magpies' over-enthusiasm to press up the field in an attempt to turn the ball over closer to goal left too many Cats free in attack. This highlights the importance of strategic planning in sports, where a well-thought-out strategy can make a significant difference. It also raises a deeper question: Can strategic planning be a game-changer?
The Underutilized McLean
Hayden McLean is far too good to be stuck in the VFL. With the acquisition of dual Coleman medallist Charlie Curnow and the return of young gun Logan McDonald, McLean's senior opportunities have been limited. However, with Curnow missing the trip to Melbourne, McLean made an impact in his first AFL game of the season, showcasing his ability to shine when given the opportunity. This underscores the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent, even when it's underutilized. It also raises a deeper question: Can underutilized players become game-changers?
The Versatile Dawson
Jordan Dawson, the inspirational Crows skipper, started Sunday's game against Richmond playing off half-back. However, after Adelaide was dominating hitouts but losing clearances and on the scoreboard, Dawson was shifted into the middle. This strategic move proved to be a game-changer, as Dawson led the way with 10 disposals, four inside 50s, two clearances, and a goal in the third quarter. This highlights the importance of strategic adjustments in sports, where a well-timed change can make a significant difference. It also raises a deeper question: Can strategic adjustments be a game-changer?
In conclusion, this week's 'Nine Things We Learned' offers a captivating glimpse into the intricate dynamics of Australian rules football, where grudges and rivalries intertwine with resilience and determination. As the 2026 season unfolds, it's evident that certain players are not just rising to the occasion but are also carrying the weight of past grievances. These insights serve as a reminder that in sports, as in life, personal grievances can become a driving force for athletic achievement, resilience can be a catalyst for redemption, and strategic planning can be a game-changer.
