Why both AFL grand final coaches want the league to axe a rule for the year’s biggest game that players and fans HATE

They may be opposing grand final coaches, but Brisbane Lions and Sydney Swans bosses Chris Fagan and John Longmire are united on one key issue that has been a bugbear for fans and players alike for many years.

When the dust settles on the AFL grand final at the MCG on Saturday, only one side will receive premiership medals.

But in a cruel twist thanks to the AFL’s rules, only the players who actually take to the pitch will receive this accolade.

Speaking at the annual coaches press conference before the grand final parade on Friday, Fagan said every player that took part in the season should receive a medal. 

‘I think the whole squad should get medals,’ Fagan said.

‘Teams win matches but squads win premierships and all the boys that don’t play contribute just as much so for me I think that makes logical sense. 

‘Every player on your list should receive a medal if you are lucky enough to win one.’ 

Swans coach Longmire agreed with the suggestion, nodding his head and saying, ‘I’m with Fages’.

It has been an issue that has come up many times during recent seasons, with Richmond premiership-winning champion Trent Cotchin also calling for a change. 

‘I definitely think they should,’ Cotchin said on Channel 7. 

‘It takes a village to win one and everyone should be recognised for the contribution. I think it’s not to put on show. It’s to know that you contributed to that premiership.’

Footy fans were quick to agree with the coaches as well.

‘All the players that play during the year should get a medal to be fair,’ one posted.

One of the biggest losers of the current rules is Lions ruck Oscar McInerney who dislocated his shoulder twice in last weekend’s preliminary final win over Geelong.

The Lions are using McInerney as motivation and said he would still have a huge role to play on grand final day off the pitch. 

‘We asked for ‘O’ to be able to sit on the bench tomorrow and be a bit of a voice for the players, which he will be,’ Fagan said. 

‘We’ll go out there trying to play for him.’

Veteran ruck Darcy Fort has been called up to replace McInerney and will be playing just his third match for the season and his first since round seven. 

But Fagan said he had full confidence in Fort. 

‘Darcy Fort’s been our number two ruckman all year – young Henry Smith’s not too far behind him, but a little bit less experienced… he’ll be a logical replacement for Oscar,’ Fagan told Fox Footy on Tuesday.

‘He’s (McInerney) a big loss, but equally, Darcy Fort is a guy who really deserves an opportunity – he’s been so understanding of playing the role of second fiddle.’