Chris Fagan calls on Brisbane Lions’ young talent to drive pre-season training standards

BRISBANE coach Chris Fagan is banking on the Lions’ department of youth to drive high training standards and put pressure on the club’s senior players.

BRISBANE coach Chris Fagan is banking on the Lions’ department of youth to drive high training standards through summer and put pressure on the club’s senior players.

Those with four or fewer years experience will report to pre-season training on Monday when Fagan will preach the importance of “continuous improvement’’ to one of the AFL’s youngest lists.

In Fagan’s time at Hawthorn, Hawks senior players spoke often about how the club’s young brigade pushed the experienced core to greater heights.

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That same approach has come with him to the Gabba.

“They start two weeks earlier than the older boys so they can get a head start but you always encourage that (young players taking responsibility),’’ he said.

“Particularly for us, being such a young side, we really rely on our young blokes to drive standards and if that pushes some of the older guys to higher levels as well, that’s a great result.

Chris Fagan unveiled as the new Brisbane Lions coach. Picture: Jono Searle

“When they turn up, I’ll be talking about the idea of continuous improvement and how we achieve that.

“My big thing is if every time you come to training and every time you come to the club to do anything, you try to improve. Eventually you get to a higher level and eventually, wins come.’’

Fagan expects the players to come back in tiptop shape.

“That’s always a good indication of a good attitude and a willingness to improve,’’ he said.

“That’s the first thing you are looking for. You are also looking for a real level of enthusiasm on the track.

“The season is five months away but the work you do now is really important.

“There’s been a healthy number of guys in the gym already doing weights and running. Every time I wander through the gym, somebody is there when they don’t need to be so that’s a good indicator.’’

Fagan has spoken to each player individually since he took the reins at Brisbane and has been impressed with their attitude.

Lions players with five years or more experience are due back to training in two weeks.