Brisbane has officially unveiled Cameron Bruce as its new AFL coach, succeeding three-time premiership leader Chris Fagan.
Taking on the senior role at the Lions is arguably the most difficult, with Bruce and Fagan helping lead the side to four consecutive Grand Finals.
So how does he reinvent the reigning premiers?
Bruce said the following as he was officially unveiled as the new Brisbane coach.
“To be appointed an AFL senior coach is an incredible privilege, and to have that opportunity at the Brisbane Lions makes it even more special,” Bruce said.
“This club means a great deal to me and my family. I'm excited to get to work with our players, coaches and staff as we prepare for 2027.
“I've learnt so much throughout my time as an assistant, particularly from Fages. He has been a tremendous mentor and supporter of mine, and I'm incredibly grateful for the trust he has placed in me and the lessons he has shared.
“I'll carry those experiences with me, but I'm also looking forward to putting my own stamp on the role and being my own senior coach.
“We have an incredibly strong foundation here and a playing group that is hungry for more success, but we also know what has worked in the past won't automatically deliver success in the future.
“The challenge now is to keep raising the bar, continue evolving and find new ways to improve. That's something I am really excited about, and I'm looking forward to working with Danny Daly and the broader football department.
“The support I've received from people inside the club and across the football community means a great deal to me.
“I'd especially like to thank my family, my wife Jules, and children Holly, Ben and Abbey for their unwavering support and the sacrifices they've made along the way. I wouldn't be in this position without them.”
Lions chairman Andrew Wellington revealed why Bruce stood out amongst a strong candidate group, which included former coaches Adam Simpson and Nathan Buckley, as well as highly-regarded assistant Hayden Skipworth.
“We undertook a thorough process to identify the best person to lead our AFL program and were impressed by the quality of a strong field of candidates.
“Cameron emerged as the standout candidate through that process, demonstrating the leadership qualities, football knowledge and vision we believe are required to take the club forward.
“Following three consecutive premierships, we are in an incredibly fortunate position, but we also recognise the importance of continuing to evolve and challenge ourselves.
“Cameron understands the standards and culture that have underpinned our success, while bringing his own ideas and a clear vision for the future.
“We have every confidence he is the right person to build on the foundations established under Chris Fagan and lead the Brisbane Lions into our next chapter.”
Football boss Danny Daly also said Bruce's ability to connect with players, understanding of the group, his football knowledge and clear vision "made him the right choice".
