About Grant Thomas
About Grant Thomas
Grant Thomas replaced Malcolm Blight as St Kilda's coach midway through the 2001 season and was controversially sacked at the end of 2006, despite coaching more wins than losses. Thomas was a ground-breaking and innovative coach, employing a 'man-management' style and famously introducing a rotational captaincy policy. He took the club to consecutive preliminary final appearances in 2004 and 2005, as well as the pre-season Wizard Cup premiership in 2004. After his sacking, many St Kilda players spoke of their shock at the decision, as Thomas enjoyed a close working relationship with the playing group. Thomas writes regularly for The Sunday Age.
Heaven or hell, Saints will not die wondering
With the coach on the ball and great spirit among the players, St Kilda has become a threat.
Tank is weapon of choice in basement battle
Draft considerations mean the once-hated wooden spoon has become an object of desire.
Voss born to lead, ready to step up as senior coach
Michael Voss has the character, knowledge and pedigree to make an instant transition from a player to a senior AFL coach.
In fear of showers, in awe of heroes
St Kilda's old ground still looks the same — and the memories are vivid — but it's a different place
There's no 'I' in team and that's how to win
The theory behind those now infamous Matthew Pavlich comments should settle the furore.
When private issues become public spats
The dramas of the past week will fire up the Saints for what promises to be a defining match.
Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's got the better list overall?
St Kilda's and Geelong's battles over which club had the stronger list has generated a fine rivalry.
Build the role of the coach, don't roll him
Coaches, like players, need to grow and develop in the role, and clubs can do more to help this process.
World championship boxing comes to a footy ground near you
The tactics used in some matches can be confusing for players and frustrating for spectators.
A Victorian team won't win the flag
The Magpies, Kangaroos and Hawks are making progress, but are still well off the pace.
Remove the barriers
Interaction is the answer to improving umpire-player relations.
Football's chance to lead
The Ben Cousins case was an opportunity for the code to send a message to society.
Self-controlled teams are masters of own destiny
Sometimes a side's excuses for a poor run become self-fulfilling. The best sides write their own scripts.
Maintaining the rage
Respect is earned by consistent effort - but consistency is a hard commodity to come by.
The brand that bothers
Team plans - and there are a variety of types - rely on a cohesive effort between individuals.
Leadership is hard work
Great leaders always have inspired great deeds, on the football field and in life.
Winners overcome adversity
Perseverance and belief go a long way to putting you on the path to success, writes Grant Thomas.
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