St Kilda sack Brett Ratten as cycle of mediocrity continues at AFL club | Jonathan Horn

The coach’s dismissal caught most analysts off guard although the least surprised was likely a supporter base at its wits end

In the off-season, optimism blooms the cheek of every footy fan and club leader. Andrew Bassat, the founder of Seek and the president of St Kilda, was certainly bullish about his footy club and his senior coach heading into 2022. “I fully expect Brett to be our long-term coach and I fully expect — no pressure at all — Brett to become our second premiership coach,” he said.

For the first few months, things were tracking nicely. They weren’t exactly a team you’d cancel all plans to go and watch. But they were in the top four. Against Geelong, they produced one of the better 20-minute bursts you’ll ever see. Ratten’s contract was extended by another two years. “Brett has secured significant buy-in from his fellow coaches, staff and players alike,” Bassat said. “In addition to his strong football IQ, our players appreciate his ability to develop strong relationships, which he uses as a foundation to challenge each individual to get better and to deliver their role for the team.”