Brad Hill had a hard conversation with Ross Lyon. This is why it’s good for the AFL |
Brad Hill had a hard conversation with Ross Lyon. This is why it’s good for the AFL
April 29, 2026 — 3:14pm
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It may have been uncomfortable for those involved, but St Kilda’s handling of Ross Lyon’s throwaway line during training to a group of Indigenous players has provided the industry with a great case study for how to respond well to such incidents.
On the facts we know, Lyon saw three Indigenous players running through a routine together on the track and made the comment: “I love the brother boy connection but we all have to remember we are part of a bigger team here”.
From there the incident could have gone in all sorts of directions.
It was a credit to those involved that it went in the direction it eventually did.
Lyon offered to consider his position as St Kilda coach after ‘misjudged’ comment upset Indigenous players
Brad Hill, the most experienced of the seven Indigenous players on the Saints’ list, who has played under Lyon at Fremantle and St Kilda, rang the coach and told him how the comment had been received.
That was a brave first step but testament to the depth of their relationship.
According to reports, Hill rightfully pointed out to Lyon that such a comment would not........