AFL grand final: Luke Hodge’s advice for approaching the big day – and his tip for who winsChris RobinsonThe West AustralianFri, 26 September 2025 2:00AMCommentsCommentsEmail Chris Robinson
Four-time premiership great Luke Hodge is among the most legendary grand final performers in AFL history.
So when the dual Norm Smith medallist gives his advice for how to handle the lead-in to the big dance, it’s worth listening.
As he prepares to vote on this year’s Norm Smith award before presenting the medal to the winner, Hodge urged Geelong and Brisbane players to embrace rather than shun the hype and massive build-up in the days and hours before bouncedown.
“I got this advice from Stuey Dew – just sit and relax. Don’t be tense, don’t be uptight,” Hodge said on The West Sport Show.
“You can actually enjoy the day, and enjoy the parade beforehand. Because the more tense you are, the more energy you use.
“Go and enjoy it and get all the nerves out. Go out and make sure you have a look at the ‘G, look at the 50,000 people out there while you’re doing a warm-up, and really soak it in.
“The people who go well in big games – the people who go well in grand finals – are the people who don’t overthink the situation.
“I know 100,000 people are there yelling at you, but there’s no difference. The same opponent from three weeks ago, the ball’s the same, the oval’s the same.
“Just try and simplify everything else, and it becomes a lot easier.”
Having played 41 games for the Lions following his decorated Hawks career, Hodge would love to see his former side salute on Saturday. But he’s tipping the opposite.
“As much as I’m trying to go the old reverse psychology – as much as I want the Lions to get up for back-to-back (flags) – I think the Cats are going to be too strong,” he said.
“They’ve got so many selfless players who are willing to play shut-down roles and do what they need to do for them to win. Plus their coach is a master.
“I reckon they’re going to win by about 30 points.”
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