PLAYER empowerment is the main reason why new Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan has made such a big impact in his first month at the club, according to young midfielder Ben Keays.
The Lions concluded another training session in sweltering conditions on Wednesday – their final hit-out before heading to Tasmania for a week-long pre-season camp on Saturday.
With a month now under Fagan's tutelage, Keays says two things had really stood out.
"He's given more power to the players, it's a lot more player-driven," the young midfielder said.
"He's brought in some traditional aspects, in that you've got to be able to kick both sides and go both sides with your hands, so blokes are working on that as well.
"He's given power back to us, and I think a lot of the boys are relishing that.
"The enthusiasm and energy is really good ... that's been a big shift."
Fagan recently told AFL.com.au a major focus in his early days was to develop the team's leadership and let the players drive the standards.
The other big change Keays touched on was the skills.
They have noticeably spent more doing drills that involve quick decisions and quick skills.
Keays, who played 16 games in his first season, said he had put extra time into his kicking, particularly goalkicking, after kicking 4.8 last year.
"Obviously the sides that can hold the footy and can kick it well and are clean with their hands – we saw the Bulldogs, premiership winners with their hands – that's what we want to get to," he said.
"I think skills are going to be a big focus."
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