In Australian Rules football, the wingman plays a crucial role on the field, often acting as the link between defense and attack. Mastering how to control this position can give your team a significant advantage. Below, we explore twelve key strategies to help players and coaches get the most out of their wingmen.
1. Prize the Position and Show Respect
The wingman is more than just a runner on the side. It’s a prized position that demands respect—not just from your own team, but also from your opponents. Recognizing the importance of the wing can influence how teams structure their play.
2. Match Up on the Best Wingman
Often, the best wingman is the fastest and most elusive player on the ground. Playing on them means being in top physical condition and reading the play smartly to stay with them step for step.
3. Stay at Home More Often Than Not
While it’s tempting to chase the ball, a good wingman maintains discipline. Holding your ground—running point post to point post or using a figure 8 pattern—ensures your side doesn’t leave dangerous gaps for the opposition to exploit.
4. Play Behind the Ball When Needed
Positioning yourself behind the ball during contests gives you the chance to intercept, support defenders, or launch quick counter-attacks when the opportunity arises.
5. Be an Outlet for Defence
A wingman often serves as a reliable outlet kick for defenders under pressure. Receiving and quickly transferring the ball can break opposition lines and turn defense into attack swiftly.
6. Run With the Ball
When you win possession, don’t be afraid to use your pace. Running with the ball draws defenders, opens up space, and creates scoring chances further down the field.
7. Be a Marking Option
Strong marking is a must. Being ready to take a well-timed grab, especially on the wing, keeps possession alive and sets up forward momentum.
8. Position Behind Stoppages
At stoppages like boundary throw-ins or centre bounces, smart wingmen position themselves just behind the contest. This makes it easier to scoop up loose balls or provide a quick option for teammates under pressure.
9. Deliver Penetrating, Accurate Kicks
One of the most valuable assets in a wingman is the ability to hit leading forwards with long, accurate kicks. This not only keeps defenders guessing but also creates high-quality scoring chances.
10. Hold Position in Forward or Backline
Whether in your team’s forward 50 or deep in defense, holding your position is critical. Avoid crowding the contest and be ready to support either line when needed.
11. Control the Wing Zone
A top-level wingman controls their zone through sharp awareness and smart decisions. Knowing when to press, when to hold, and when to run is what separates good wing play from great wing play.
12. Handle the Heavier Traffic
The wing is often the busiest corridor on the ground. A composed wingman reads the congestion, makes quick choices, and finds a way through heavy traffic to keep the play moving.
By mastering these fundamentals, players can elevate their game and become a critical asset on the wing. Coaches, meanwhile, can use these points to develop training drills and tactical plans that maximize the impact of this important position.