The term 'hub' is something AFL teams have come to build both a love and hate relationship with.
Whilst the 2020 season saw players endure breakdowns and breaches, it also showcased the number of benefits a hub can create for a team if tackled correctly.
Yet what exactly are the benefits for interstate teams forced into Victorian hubs?
The Sydney Swans are arguably the team benefitting the most from hub life.
Following their resounding 92-point victory over the West Coast Eagles at GMHBA Stadium, it was hard to not benefit from a sea of over 11,000 red and white fans.
โWeโve got a great heritage and great history down in South Melbourne, it was great to see some red and white in the crowd," Swans defender Harry Cunningham said to Sydney Media.
"They were really vocal especially towards that second half which was great and it was pleasing to be able to come here and play some great footy in front of our home fansโ.
Players such as Buddy Franklin should also be noted for his history of playing high standard footy in Melbourne, particularly with finals approaching.
However Sydney's belting was not the only upset of Round 16.
It is no secret that hubs have helped teams strengthen their connection with one-another.
Fremantle coach Longmuir has been vocal on the benefits hub life had for his team, stating that "it helped accelerate the relationships within the playing group" as well as his relationship with his players.ย
The Gold Coast suns and Greater Western Sydney Giants are a prime example of the role a strong team connection can have for their on-field capabilities, with both teams managing to upset both the Tigers and Demons respectively this weekend despite having a clear crowd disadvantage.
With Victorian teams such as the Tigers losing their desire and focus, Round 16 has clearly displayed the benefits a hub can have.
Will the hubs help aid teams such as GWS into the eight? Or even place a brighter light into the young Suns squad? The coming weeks will tell.
