Craig O’Donoghue: In league of copycats, Fremantle Dockers follow own unique path in premiership pursuit

Craig O’Donoghue: In League of Copycats, Fremantle Dockers Follow Own Unique Path in Premiership Pursuit

The Fremantle Dockers have long been an enigmatic force in the AFL, a club that has weathered its fair share of highs and lows. But as the AFL’s landscape increasingly becomes defined by a few elite clubs with cookie-cutter formulas for success, Fremantle has remained one of the last bastions of individuality, carving out its own unique path toward premiership glory.

It’s no secret that in the fast-paced, ultra-competitive environment of Australian Rules Football, teams often look to replicate the winning formulas of the game’s heavyweights—Melbourne, Geelong, Richmond, and the West Coast Eagles. These clubs have become synonymous with success, and naturally, other teams scramble to mimic their styles, training regimens, and strategies in hopes of catching that elusive premiership.

However, Fremantle has steadfastly refused to follow the crowd. While other clubs search for quick fixes, Fremantle has been methodical in its approach, focusing on building a system that plays to its strengths rather than chasing trends. It’s a strategy that has led them to the cusp of something truly special, even if it hasn’t always been the most obvious route.

Central to Fremantle’s approach is their willingness to invest in youth development. They’ve built a strong, vibrant academy, allowing the club to scout and nurture local talent from within their own borders. Unlike other clubs that focus heavily on interstate recruits or established stars, Fremantle’s young players are given the freedom to evolve into unique, dynamic athletes who aren’t constrained by preconceived expectations. They’re not just developing players—they’re cultivating an identity that is distinctly Fremantle.

One of the most exciting examples of this is their star midfielder, Andrew Brayshaw. A young player who is carving out his own legacy, Brayshaw embodies the Dockers’ ethos—hard work, determination, and adaptability. He’s a perfect reflection of the club’s philosophy: stay true to your principles and trust the process. While other clubs might have crumbled under pressure, Fremantle’s patience with players like Brayshaw shows that they are invested in more than just short-term success.

But it’s not only the players that stand out; it’s the coaching staff as well. Fremantle’s head coach, Justin Longmuir, has slowly built a team that is known for its defensive structure, balanced ball movement, and unwavering discipline. While many clubs have followed the “fast and furious” trend of quick transitions and high-pressure forward attacks, Longmuir has opted for a more composed, methodical style. It’s a decision that has paid dividends, especially in big matches where control of the game is paramount.

In a league filled with copycats, Fremantle has taken the road less traveled. While other teams lean into the excitement of flashy attacks and rapid turnovers, the Dockers have placed an emphasis on adaptability and resilience. They have learned that a premiership is not won overnight, nor is it won by copying the success of others. Instead, it’s built on creating a winning culture from the ground up, one that balances patience with ambition.

But the Dockers’ refusal to chase the trends has not come without its critics. For years, the club was accused of being too conservative, too focused on defense, and too reluctant to take risks. Some pundits and fans were quick to label them as “also-rans,” forever doomed to finish in the middle of the pack. But each year, Fremantle has taken steps forward, gradually gaining the respect of the footballing community.

And now, as the 2025 season unfolds, Fremantle stands at the precipice of greatness. They are no longer an afterthought in the AFL; they are contenders. Their unique approach has allowed them to rise above the noise of the copycats, and it’s clear that the future is incredibly bright for the Dockers.

The Premiership pursuit is no longer a distant dream, but a tangible goal within reach. Fremantle’s story serves as a reminder that, in a world that often values imitation over innovation, there is still space for those who dare to forge their own path. In the AFL, it is often the ones who stay true to themselves that ultimately succeed—and Fremantle, with its unwavering commitment to individuality, is proof that sometimes, the road less traveled is the one that leads to the ultimate glory.