TIPSLIFEHACKS

Chris Scott, the coach of Geelong, is renowned for his remarkably calm demeanour. Over his 15-year tenure at the helm, players recall him raising his voice just *twice*. In a high-pressure environment where fiery outbursts are often expected, Scott's measured approach has become a defining characteristic of his leadership.

A Philosophy of Respect and Trust

Scott's philosophy revolves around respect and trust. He believes in fostering a culture where players feel empowered and comfortable communicating openly, reducing the need for reactive, emotional responses. Instead of resorting to yelling or intimidation, he focuses on clear, concise feedback delivered in a calm and rational manner. This approach, he argues, allows players to process information more effectively and respond more constructively.

"Chris is incredibly composed," says former Geelong player Joel Selwood. "You rarely see him flustered. He’s always thinking, always analysing, and his communication is always clear and considered. It’s a huge asset to the team."

The Rare Moments of Intensity

While Scott's calmness is the norm, there have been two notable exceptions. Both incidents occurred during matches against Essendon, highlighting the intensity of the rivalry and the exceptional circumstances that triggered his rare displays of emotion. One instance followed a particularly painful loss, while the other arose from a perceived injustice on the field. Players who were present during these moments describe them as intense but brief, and ultimately serving to galvanize the team rather than demoralize it.

"Even when he did raise his voice, it wasn't a screaming match," explains another Geelong veteran. "It was more of a focused, passionate address. You knew he cared deeply about the team and wanted us to perform at our best."

The Impact on Geelong's Success

Scott's calm leadership style is widely credited as a key factor in Geelong’s sustained success over the past decade and a half. The club has consistently been a contender, reaching the Grand Final on multiple occasions and claiming a premiership in 2022. His ability to maintain composure under pressure, and to instill that same composure in his players, has been instrumental in navigating the challenges of the AFL.

In a league often characterized by volatility and emotional extremes, Chris Scott stands out as a beacon of calm. His remarkable ability to lead with measured intensity has not only shaped Geelong’s culture but has also redefined the role of an AFL coach in the modern era. It's a testament to the power of respect, trust, and a cool head in the heat of competition. His approach provides a valuable lesson for leaders across all fields – sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is remain calm.

Beyond the Field: A Leader's Approach

Scott’s leadership principles extend beyond the football field. He’s known for his thoughtful analysis of the game and his willingness to adapt his strategies based on data and player feedback. This demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and a genuine desire to create a high-performance environment for his players and coaches alike. The quiet confidence he exudes has created a stable and successful environment at Geelong, and it’s a model that many other clubs are now studying.