Geelong West Football Club has ushered in a new era, appointing Chris Browne as senior coach with a clear and urgent mission: to end the Giants' painful 13-year absence from the Geelong Football League finals series.
A New Leader with a Clear Mandate
The club officially confirmed Browne's appointment this week, handing him the reins after a extensive pre-season where he has already begun to imprint his philosophy on the playing group. Browne steps into the role with significant local knowledge and a respected football pedigree, having previously served as an assistant coach at the Geelong Falcons in the Talent League.
His connection to the club is also personal and deep-rooted. Chris Browne is the son of club legend and former champion ruckman, John Browne, whose name adorns the Giants' best-and-fairest award. This legacy adds a layer of passion to the new coach's daunting task of reviving the fortunes of the struggling GFL powerhouse.
The Giants' last finals appearance was all the way back in 2011, a staggering drought for a club of its stature within the local competition. The weight of that history is not lost on Browne, who acknowledges the challenge but faces it with unwavering determination.
Early Signs Promising as Giants 'Light Up the Track'
Despite the long road ahead, early indicators from West Oval are overwhelmingly positive. Reports from the track suggest the playing squad has responded vigorously to Browne's methods and the fresh start he represents.
Training standards and intensity have notably lifted, with players embracing the new structures and game plan. This renewed energy and commitment have created a palpable sense of optimism around the club, a feeling that has been in short supply during the recent lean years.
Browne's focus extends beyond just fitness and skill drills. He is placing a strong emphasis on building a cohesive unit and fostering a resilient team culture—elements he believes are fundamental to weathering the ups and downs of a gruelling GFL season and, ultimately, breaking back into the top five.
Building a List for Sustainable Success
While the coach is pleased with the training response, he is under no illusions about the work required to build a list capable of consistent finals football. The recruitment and retention of key players will be crucial in the coming months.
Browne and the club's recruiting team are actively working to bolster the squad, seeking to add experience and quality in key positions. The aim is not just a one-off finals appearance, but to re-establish Geelong West as a perennial contender that commands respect across the Bellarine Peninsula and throughout the wider Geelong football community.
The journey for the Giants under Chris Browne officially begins when the 2024 GFL season kicks off. All eyes will be on West Oval to see if the promising signs from the pre-season can translate into the wins required to finally shatter a drought that has lasted over a decade.
