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Brett Ratten
Brett Ratten
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Brett Ratten (born 11 July 1971) is an Australian rules football coach and former player in the Australian Football League (AFL). He played 255 games for the Carlton Football Club between 1990 and 2003, including the club's 1995 premiership. He then served as Carlton's senior coach from 2007 to 2012. After a seven-year stint as an assistant coach with Hawthorn and St Kilda, in 2019 he was appointed as St Kilda's senior coach, a role he held until his sacking at the end of the 2022 AFL season. Ratten was also the caretaker senior coach at North Melbourne during Alastair Clarkson's leave of absence.[1][2]

Key Information

Playing career

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Carlton

[edit]

Originally from Yarra Glen, Ratten made his debut for Carlton Football Club in the fifteenth round of the 1990 season.[3][4]

In a career lasting 14 years, Ratten played mainly as an in-and-under midfielder. His unobtrusive style often escaped the attention of media and umpires early in his career. Famously, he won Carlton's best and fairest award in the record-breaking premiership season of 1995, including a game in round 17 against Fitzroy when he amassed 44 disposals, but failed to poll a single Brownlow vote from the umpires for the entire season.[5] In the 1999 season, Ratten was credited with 265 clearances, which (as of 2021) remains the highest on record by a considerable margin – the next-highest is only 192.[6][7][8]

Ratten won the Robert Reynolds Trophy (Carlton best and fairest) on three occasions: 1995, 1997, and in a tie with Scott Camporeale in 2000. Ratten was a part of Carlton's premiership team in 1995. He played for Victoria in the State of Origin games in 1996 and 1997. He was awarded All-Australian selection in 1997, 2000 and 2001, firmly cementing his skill in the centre. Ratten was inducted into the Carlton Hall of Fame in 1999.[9] In 2009, statistical analysis company Champion Data announced that Ratten averaged 126.1 ranking points per game during the 2000–2009 decade, the highest of any player in the league.[10][11][12]

During his time in football, he had eight arthroscopes on his right knee, three arthroscopes on his left knee and a medial ligament. His shoulder was also badly damaged in 2003, which ultimately led to Ratten announcing his retirement from his playing career in the middle of the 2003 season.[13][14]

After Craig Bradley chose to step-down as captain at the end of 2001, Ratten was awarded the club's captaincy in 2002, a position he held until his own retirement. After his retirement, in the middle of the 2003 season, the captaincy was passed to Andrew McKay for the rest of the season.[15][16]

Ratten played a total of 255 games and kicked 117 goals for Carlton from 1990 to 2003.[17][18] He was also a member of Carlton's 1995 premiership team.[19]

Coaching career

[edit]

Melbourne Football Club assistant coach and Norwood Football Club (2004–2006)

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After retiring from playing, Ratten spent one year as an assistant coach at the Melbourne Football Club under senior coach Neale Daniher for the 2004 AFL season,[20] before leaving to take a head coaching role at the Norwood Football Club in the Eastern Football League's second division for two seasons.[21]

Carlton Football Club (2007–2012)

[edit]

Ratten returned to the Carlton Football Club as an assistant coach under senior coach Denis Pagan for the 2007 AFL season.[22] On 24 July 2007, Pagan was sacked during the middle of the season. Ratten was then appointed as caretaker senior coach of Carlton for the remainder of the 2007 season.[23][24] Carlton under Ratten lost the remaining six games of the 2007 season to finish in 15th place on the ladder.[25] On 20 August 2007, Ratten was re-appointed as full-time Carlton Football Club senior coach, when he signed a contract until the end of 2009.[26][27] In the 2008 AFL season, Carlton under Ratten finished in 11th place on the ladder with 10 wins and 12 losses, missing out on the finals.[28]

Under Ratten's coaching, Carlton returned to the finals after a long period of poor performances under Pagan. Carlton reached the finals in the 2009 season, Ratten's second season, finishing seventh and ending a seven-year finals drought, the longest in the club's history. However, Carlton were eliminated by the Brisbane Lions in their elimination final in the 2009 AFL finals series. His contract was extended until the end of 2011 as a result of this improved performance.[29]

Late in the 2010 season, Ratten came under scrutiny as senior coach when Carlton had several big losses, but the club nevertheless reached the finals again, finishing eighth. Ratten began coaching from the boundary line rather than the coaches' box during the season. Carlton were however eliminated by the Sydney Swans in the elimination final in the 2010 finals series. In the 2011 season, he took the team to fifth and an elimination final victory against Essendon, the club's first finals win for 10 years. However, Carlton were eliminated by the West Coast Eagles in the semi-finals in the 2011 finals series. There had been speculation that renewal of Ratten's contract beyond 2011 was contingent on the club winning a final and his contract was extended to the end of 2013 after the season.[30]

Carlton's on-field performance under Ratten in the 2012 season was inconsistent and the club missed the finals, finishing in tenth position on the ladder with eleven wins and eleven losses, after setting pre-season expectations of a top four finish.[31] After the second-last round of the season in Round 22, 2012 after Carlton suffered an upset loss against Gold Coast Suns and was mathematically eliminated from finals contention, Ratten was sacked as senior coach of Carlton after his contract was terminated at the end of 2012, one year early.[32][33][34][35][36][37] Including his six games as caretaker coach, Ratten coached 120 games for Carlton, recording 60 wins, a draw and 59 losses, bringing a winning percentage to 50 percent.[38] He was the third person to both play and coach over 100 senior games for the Carlton Football Club, after Ken Hands and Norm Clark.[39] Ratten was then replaced by Mick Malthouse as Carlton Football Club senior coach.[40][41][42]

Hawthorn Football Club assistant coach (2013–2018)

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Ratten with Hawthorn in 2017

On 5 October 2012, Ratten accepted an assistant coaching position at the Hawthorn Football Club under senior coach Alastair Clarkson.[43][44][45][46] He commenced in November 2012 and subsequently was part of the club's 2013, 2014 and 2015 premiership coaching panel. Ratten left the Hawthorn Football Club at the end of the 2018 season.[47][48]

St Kilda Football Club (2019–2022)

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In 2019, St Kilda Football Club appointed Ratten as an assistant coach under senior coach Alan Richardson.[49] Upon Richardson's resignation during the middle of the 2019 season after Round 17, 2019, Ratten was appointed the caretaker senior coach of St Kilda Football Club for the remainder of the 2019 season.[50][51][52][53] In September 2019, after the end of the 2019 season, Ratten was re-appointed as full-time St Kilda Football Club senior coach.[54][55][56]

In his first full season as St Kilda senior coach in the 2020 season, the competition was disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the season first suspended between March and June and then largely relocated to Queensland as the pandemic took hold in Victoria. Despite being based in Noosa Heads for the length of the season, Ratten took the Saints to their first finals series since 2011, winning their elimination final against the Western Bulldogs at The Gabba by three points before losing and being eliminated by Richmond, the eventual premiers, in a semi-final. In the 2021 season, the Saints under Ratten fell back with on-field performance and finished 10th on the ladder with 10 wins and 12 losses and therefore missing out on the finals.

Ratten was sacked as senior coach of St Kilda on 13 October 2022 at the end of the 2022 season, after a club review in the wake of a disappointing 2022 season where the Saints under Ratten won 11 games and lost 11 to finish 10th on the ladder, missing out on the finals.[57][58][59][60][61][62] Ratten was then replaced by Ross Lyon as St Kilda senior coach, who returned in his second stint as Saints senior coach.[63]

North Melbourne Football Club (2023)

[edit]
Ratten as caretaker senior coach of North Melbourne during the 2023 AFL season

On 24 November 2022, It was announced that Ratten joined the North Melbourne Football Club in a part-time role as assistant coach in the role of midfield coach, supporting fellow assistant coach in the role of midfield and line coach Jordan Russell under senior coach Alastair Clarkson.[64][65][66][67][68][69]

In May 2023, it was announced that Clarkson would step away from his role as North Melbourne senior coach indefinitely, and Ratten was announced as caretaker senior coach of North Melbourne. In doing so, he became the first coach in VFL/AFL history to be appointed as a caretaker senior coach three times.[70][71]

Ratten coached North Melbourne as caretaker senior coach for a total of 10 games in the 2023 season before Clarkson resumed his role as senior coach in Round 21, 2023 against Melbourne.[72] Ratten then returned to being an assistant coach. Ratten then left the North Melbourne Football Club at the end of the 2023 season.[73][74][75][76][77][78]

Hawthorn Football Club assistant coach (2024–present)

[edit]

On 27 September 2023, it was announced Ratten returned to Hawthorn Football Club in an assistant coaching role as Head of Coaching Performance & Development under senior coach Sam Mitchell.[79][80]

Personal life

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Ratten's 16 year old son Cooper was killed in a car crash on 16 August 2015.[81][82][83]

Legacy and reception

[edit]

Former Carlton player Heath Scotland, who played under Ratten in Ratten's tenure as senior coach of Carlton praised Ratten, stating “For me, as a player and now a young coach, you learn from the coaches you’ve had and he was probably the man I learnt the most from in my time in playing".[84]

Former St Kilda player Jarrod Lienert who played under Ratten in Ratten's tenure as senior coach of St Kilda praised Ratten stating “My personal experience with him, I thought he was great, and he had a really good relationship with the players and he’s such a caring guy".[85]

Statistics

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Playing statistics

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Statistics are correct to the end of the 2003 season[86]
Legend
  G  
Goals
  K  
Kicks
  D  
Disposals 
  T  
Tackles
  B  
Behinds 
  H  
Handballs 
  M  
Marks
  #  
Played in that season's 
premiership team
  †  
Led the league for 
the season
Season Team No. Games Totals Averages (per game) Votes
G B K H D M T G B K H D M T
1990 Carlton 40 1 1 0 12 2 14 2 0 1.0 0.0 12.0 2.0 14.0 2.0 0.0 0
1991 Carlton 7 20 3 9 202 207 409 50 41 0.2 0.5 10.1 10.4 20.5 2.5 2.1 1
1992 Carlton 7 19 2 1 163 106 269 30 22 0.1 0.1 8.6 5.6 14.2 1.6 1.2 0
1993 Carlton 7 21 2 2 206 143 349 49 34 0.1 0.1 9.8 6.8 16.6 2.3 1.6 0
1994 Carlton 7 11 2 2 115 70 185 24 21 0.2 0.2 10.5 6.4 16.8 2.2 1.9 0
1995# Carlton 7 25 12 15 320 251 571 78 75 0.5 0.6 12.8 10.0 22.8 3.1 3.0 0
1996 Carlton 7 24 8 8 297 258 555 74 65 0.3 0.3 12.4 10.8 23.1 3.1 2.7 7
1997 Carlton 7 21 6 8 255 261 516 66 68 0.3 0.4 12.1 12.4 24.6 3.1 3.2 12
1998 Carlton 7 21 9 10 265 237 502 58 67 0.4 0.5 12.6 11.3 23.9 2.8 3.2 3
1999 Carlton 7 26 14 5 350 320 670 68 99 0.5 0.2 13.5 12.3 25.8 2.6 3.8 4
2000 Carlton 7 25 25 18 395 300 695 115 75 1.0 0.7 15.8 12.0 27.8 4.6 3.0 18
2001 Carlton 7 22 21 11 300 273 573 83 103 1.0 0.5 13.6 12.4 26.0 3.8 4.7 8
2002 Carlton 7 12 9 5 125 135 260 33 58 0.8 0.4 10.4 11.3 21.7 2.8 4.8 0
2003 Carlton 7 7 3 4 82 46 128 18 24 0.4 0.6 11.7 6.6 18.3 2.6 3.4 0
Career 255 117 98 3087 2609 5696 748 752 0.5 0.4 12.1 10.2 22.3 2.9 2.9 53

Coaching statistics

[edit]
[87]
Legend
 W  Wins  L  Losses  D  Draws  W%  Winning percentage  LP  Ladder position  LT  League teams
Season Team Games W L D W % LP LT
2007* Carlton 6 0 6 0 0.0% 16
2008 Carlton 22 10 12 0 45.5% 11 16
2009 Carlton 23 13 10 0 56.5% 7 16
2010 Carlton 23 11 12 0 47.8% 8 16
2011 Carlton 24 15 8 1 64.6% 5 17
2012 Carlton 22 11 11 0 50.0% 10 18
2019* St Kilda 6 3 3 0 50.0% 18
2020 St Kilda 19 11 8 0 57.9% 6 18
2021 St Kilda 22 10 12 0 45.5% 10 18
2022 St Kilda 21 10 11 0 47.6% 10 18
2023* North Melbourne 10 0 10 0 0.0% 18
Career totals 198 94 103 1 47.73%

* = Caretaker coach

Honours and achievements

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Brett Ratten (born 11 July 1971) is an Australian rules football coach and former player who had a distinguished career with the Carlton Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL), highlighted by a 1995 premiership, three Robert Reynolds Medal wins as club best and fairest (in 1995, 1997, and tied in 2000), and two All-Australian selections (in 2000 and 2001). Over 14 seasons from 1990 to 2003, Ratten played 255 games and kicked 117 goals for Carlton, primarily as a tough renowned for his clearance work—he holds the AFL single-season record with 265 clearances in 1999—and leadership, captaining the team in 2002 and 2003. His contributions earned him induction into the Carlton Hall of Fame in 1999. Transitioning to coaching, Ratten became senior coach of Carlton from mid-2007 to 2012, overseeing 120 games with 60 wins, 59 losses, and 1 draw, including two finals appearances in and amid the club's challenges. He then served as an assistant at Hawthorn from 2013 to 2018, contributing to their four consecutive premierships from 2013 to 2016 under . Appointed senior coach of St Kilda in 2019, he led the Saints for 68 games until his end-of-2022 sacking, recording 34 wins and 34 losses while implementing a rebuild focused on contested ball and young talent development. In 2023, Ratten took on an interim senior coaching role at for the final 10 games (0 wins, 10 losses), before departing at season's end. Since September 2023, he has held the position of Head of Coaching Performance and Development at Hawthorn, mentoring the next generation of coaches and players.

Early life

Upbringing

Brett Ratten was born on 11 July 1971 in Yarra Glen, a small rural town in Victoria, , approximately 50 kilometres northeast of . Ratten's early family life unfolded in this working-class rural setting, where the community revolved around and local traditions, though specific details about his parents and siblings remain limited in public records. The modest environment of Yarra Glen provided a grounded childhood, fostering resilience and a strong connection to the land and local way of life. Ratten's initial exposure to Australian rules football occurred through the influences of the tight-knit Yarra Glen community, where the sport was a central part of social and recreational activities. He began playing at the local Yarra Glen Football Club in the Yarra Valley Football League, immersing himself in the game from a young age.

Junior career

Ratten began his organised football journey in the juniors at Yarra Glen Football Club, reflecting the strong community ties in his rural Victorian upbringing that ignited his passion for the sport. His performances in the Yarra Valley leagues, though without major individual awards or representative honours, demonstrated enough potential to attract AFL attention. In 1988, at age 16 and still a schoolboy, Ratten was recruited directly to Carlton's Under-19 squad, bypassing the early national draft era through the club's country recruiting network. This pre-list signing marked his pathway into professional ranks, setting the stage for his senior debut two years later.

Playing career

Carlton

Brett Ratten, recruited from Yarra Glen after a promising junior career, made his senior debut for Carlton in round 22 of the as a 19-year-old back pocket. Initially playing a supporting role in defense, Ratten quickly adapted to the demands of elite football, showcasing his versatility and during his early years with the club. By the mid-1990s, Ratten had transitioned into a key position, becoming a vital part of Carlton's as an in-and-under specialist renowned for his toughness and endurance. His playing style emphasized relentless ball-winning at ground level, exceptional tackling pressure, and clever distribution by hand or foot, often going unnoticed by umpires due to his unobtrusive yet impactful contributions; he holds the AFL single-season record with 265 clearances in 1999. This evolution culminated in his standout 1995 season, where he won Carlton's award—the Robert Reynolds Trophy—and played a crucial role in the team's premiership victory, contributing to their win over by 61 points. Ratten's leadership qualities shone through in subsequent years, earning him the club's again in 1997 and a tied win in 2000 with , marking him as one of Carlton's most consistent performers during a challenging period for the team. Appointed for the 2002 and 2003 seasons, he guided the through turbulent times with his on-field presence and inspirational demeanor, embodying the club's resilient spirit. Ratten retired at the end of the 2003 season after 255 games and 117 goals for Carlton, leaving a legacy as a durable leader and premiership hero whose midfield prowess and endurance defined an era.

Coaching career

Early assistant roles (2004–2006)

Following his retirement from playing at Carlton at the end of the 2003 AFL season, Brett Ratten transitioned into coaching by joining the Melbourne Football Club as an assistant coach in 2004 under senior coach Neale Daniher. In this role, Ratten was responsible for midfield development, where he was credited with enhancing the Demons' midfield performance through improved contest work and ball-winning efficiency, contributing to the team's qualification for the AFL finals series that year. His work emphasized tactical discipline and player positioning in the engine room, helping to elevate the output of key midfielders during a rebuilding phase for the club. Ratten departed at the conclusion of the 2004 season, seeking greater hands-on experience to accelerate his progression, including direct player management and operational responsibilities beyond an assistant capacity. This move reflected the challenges of adapting from a high-profile to , where he aimed to build a foundational centered on and strategic growth rather than immediate results. In 2005, he coached the Victorian Country Football League (VCFL) representative team, providing further exposure to team selection and match preparation in a less pressured environment. Ratten's development continued in 2006 when he was appointed senior coach of the in the (SANFL), marking his first head coaching position. At Norwood, he implemented key tactical elements such as structured ball movement from defense and an emphasis on contested possessions, fostering a team-oriented approach during a transitional period for the club. The Redlegs competed solidly in a competitive league, finishing in mid-table and gaining profile through Ratten's AFL pedigree, though the role presented adaptation hurdles in managing a semi-professional roster and instilling a cohesive game plan. This period solidified Ratten's early coaching philosophy, prioritizing player empowerment and long-term development amid the shift from player to authoritative leader.

Carlton head coach (2007–2012)

Brett Ratten was appointed as Carlton's caretaker senior coach on July 24, 2007, following the mid-season sacking of Denis Pagan after 16 rounds, with the sitting 14th on the ladder. As a 1995 premiership player and former captain of the club, Ratten's internal promotion provided continuity during a turbulent period. He guided Carlton to three wins in the remaining seven games of the 2007 season, finishing 12th overall. Ratten's appointment as full-time senior coach was confirmed for the 2008 season, marking the beginning of his five-year tenure at the helm. Ratten's coaching philosophy emphasized youth development and cultural rebuilding, addressing the lingering effects of the club's 2002 scandal, which had resulted in severe draft penalties and player losses. He prioritized mentoring emerging talents, such as No. 1 draft pick Marc Murphy, who debuted in 2006 and became a cornerstone midfielder under Ratten's guidance, earning praise for his leadership and consistency. In , Ratten established a dedicated youth academy, appointing specialists like Darren Harris and Robert Harvey to enhance player development programs focused on skill acquisition and team culture. This approach contributed to Carlton's gradual improvement, with the team returning to finals contention in 2009 after a 13-9 home-and-away record, followed by consecutive September appearances in 2010 and 2011, including a semi-final elimination in 2011. Despite these successes, Ratten's tenure ended abruptly on August 29, 2012, when Carlton sacked him with one year remaining on his contract, citing the need for a new direction after the finished 10th with an 11-11 record and missed for the first time since 2008. The decision came amid speculation of recruiting as replacement, despite Ratten's overall coaching record of 60 wins, 59 losses, and 1 draw in 120 games. Ratten later reflected that the mid-season extension of his contract in 2011 had heightened expectations, contributing to the club's evaluation of his leadership.

Hawthorn assistant coach (2013–2018)

Following his tenure as head coach at Carlton, Ratten joined Hawthorn as an assistant coach ahead of the season, bringing his experience in senior leadership to Alastair Clarkson's staff. Appointed on 5 October 2012, he took on responsibilities as line coach and midfield coach, focusing on the development and performance of the club's . This role allowed Ratten to contribute to Hawthorn's dominant midfield unit, which became a cornerstone of the team's success during a golden era. Ratten played a key part in Hawthorn's coaching panel across four consecutive premierships from 2013 to 2016, helping refine the club's game plan and foster player growth in high-stakes environments. His work with midfielders emphasized contested ball-winning and transition play, supporting the Hawks' ability to control games through superior inside-50 efficiency and clearance dominance. During this period, Hawthorn achieved remarkable consistency, with Ratten's input aiding the evolution of strategies that propelled the team to 61 wins in 66 games across those premiership years, including grand final triumphs over Fremantle in 2013 and 2014, and West Coast in 2015. In August 2015, Ratten faced profound personal tragedy when his 16-year-old son, Cooper, died in a car accident, prompting widespread support from the Hawthorn club and AFL community as he continued his duties. The club stood by him through this challenging time, allowing Ratten to balance family needs with his coaching commitments. At the end of the 2018 season, after six years and contributing to the team's sustained competitiveness, Ratten departed Hawthorn to explore new career opportunities, a decision mutually agreed upon with the club. Hawthorn's of football, Graham Wright, praised Ratten's , values, and popularity among players and staff.

St Kilda head coach (2019–2022)

Brett Ratten joined St Kilda as an assistant coach in October 2018, reuniting with head coach Alan Richardson from their time together at Carlton, and drawing on his recent success as an assistant at Hawthorn during their 2013–2016 premiership . In July 2019, Richardson stepped down amid the team's struggles, and Ratten was appointed caretaker coach for the remainder of the season. Under his interim leadership, St Kilda secured three wins in their final six games, improving from a 2–12 start. This performance led to his full-time appointment as senior coach in September 2019 on a three-year contract, with the club emphasizing his experience in building competitive teams. Ratten's tenure began with a shortened 2020 season due to , where St Kilda finished sixth with a 10–6–1 record, marking their first appearance since 2011. They advanced to an elimination final but lost to the by 13 points. The 2021 season saw a mid-table finish in 10th place with 10 wins and 12 losses, showing progress in consistency but lacking the momentum for another campaign. In 2022, the Saints started strongly with a 9–2 record after 11 rounds but faltered late, winning only two of their last 11 games to end 11–11 and ninth, resulting in an overall coaching record at the club of 34 wins, 34 losses, and one draw across 68 games. Ratten prioritized defensive structures influenced by his Hawthorn background, aiming to create a robust backline while fostering an attacking mindset that encouraged players to "go out and play" without over-relying on rigid tactics. He placed significant emphasis on developing young talent, particularly key forward Max King, whom he publicly backed through inconsistent periods and viewed as a for the club's future, providing to build his and role within the forward line. Tactical shifts included evolving the team's intercept marking and transition play, though internal reviews later highlighted challenges in maintaining cohesion under pressure. In July 2022, amid a strong start to the season, St Kilda extended Ratten's contract by two years, praising his leadership and buy-in from players and staff. However, following an extensive review of the football department after the disappointing finish, the club sacked him on October 13, 2022, citing a need for a renewed "winning culture" and broader structural changes, with president Andrew Bassat later admitting the mid-season extension was a mistake that blindsided Ratten. The decision stemmed from internal dynamics revealed in the review, including inconsistencies in performance and departmental alignment, despite Ratten's respected standing within the group.

North Melbourne caretaker coach (2023)

In May 2023, following Alastair Clarkson's decision to take indefinite leave to prioritize his physical and emotional amid an ongoing investigation into historical allegations at his former club Hawthorn, Brett Ratten was appointed as 's caretaker senior coach. Ratten, who had joined the Kangaroos as a part-time assistant coach in November 2022 after his sacking from St Kilda, stepped into the role ahead of round 11, overseeing the next 10 matches of the season. Ratten's tenure came during a challenging period for the rebuilding North Melbourne side, which had endured a prolonged winless streak entering his appointment and continued to struggle against stronger opponents. With no victories in his 10 games at the helm—all losses, several of which were close contests decided by fewer than 10 points—Ratten emphasized maintaining player development and effort levels to foster morale amid the losses. He focused on continuity with Clarkson's established game plan, making tough personnel decisions such as demoting players to the reserves or delaying VFL elevations, while aiming to position the team competitively and support long-term transition planning for the young squad. Ratten's interim role concluded after North Melbourne's round 20 loss to West Coast on July 30, 2023, with Clarkson resuming full-time duties ahead of round 21. Reflecting on the stint, Ratten expressed gratitude for the players' respect and commitment, noting the emotional toll but satisfaction in contributing to the club's stability during a turbulent that ended with an overall record of 3 wins and 20 losses.

Hawthorn development role (2024–present)

In 2023, Brett Ratten returned to the ahead of the 2024 season as Head of Coaching Performance & Development, working under senior coach Sam Mitchell. His role focuses on supporting the coaching staff by reducing Mitchell's workload, mentoring the broader group, and contributing to game plan evolution through performance analysis. Ratten also directly coaches players, particularly young talents in the club's development pathway, to accelerate their progress and enhance team cohesion. As part of his duties, Ratten traveled to the in October 2024 for a month-long study tour, observing operations at , Cardiff City Football Club, , and a summit in to gain insights into coaching and high-performance practices across sports. This initiative aligned with Hawthorn's off-season program mandating external learning for coaches following their 2024 finals appearance. Ratten's role extended into 2025, where he remained active in public engagements, including returning to his former club Carlton in to present the No. 7 jumper to new draftee Jagga Smith at IKON Park. In July, ahead of the TAC Road Safety Round, he shared a personal message drawing from his family's experiences to promote road safety awareness among Victorian football communities. Throughout 2024, Ratten repeatedly affirmed his lack of interest in resuming a senior coaching position, stating in March, "I don't want to be a senior coach anymore," citing past challenges that eroded his trust in such roles. He reiterated this stance in October during a appearance, emphasizing satisfaction with his supportive development focus at Hawthorn.

Personal life

Family

Brett Ratten is married to Jo Ratten, with whom he has shared both professional and personal challenges throughout his career. The couple's family life was profoundly altered by the tragic death of their son Cooper in August 2015. Cooper, born in 1999, was 16 years old when he died from injuries sustained in a crash near Yarra Glen, Victoria, where he was a passenger in a vehicle that veered off the road and rolled. At the time, Ratten was serving as an assistant coach at Hawthorn, and the club granted him indefinite leave to grieve with his family; he returned to work after about 10 days and penned a heartfelt public describing Cooper as "cheeky" and full of life. The Rattens also have a , Tilly, born around 2012, who was diagnosed with right in 2019 at approximately age seven. Prior to treatment, Tilly endured up to 30 seizures per day, which severely impacted her daily life, including school attendance, prompting the family to bring her home each day due to exhaustion. eventually controlled the seizures after about three months, though side effects like balance issues persisted initially. The diagnosis coincided with Ratten's appointment as St Kilda's senior coach, adding emotional strain during a pivotal professional moment. Post-tragedies, the Ratten family has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with Jo providing steadfast support as Ratten has described her as "amazing in strength." They continue to honor Cooper's through annual milestones, such as marking what would have been his 21st birthday in 2020, while managing Tilly's ongoing care with regular assessments. Ratten has noted the profound, daily presence of grief for Cooper alongside their commitment to family unity. Hailing from rural roots in Yarra Glen, Victoria, Ratten's family background underscores the close-knit dynamics that have sustained them through these hardships.

Health and advocacy

Following the 2019 diagnosis of his daughter Tilly with right , Ratten has become a prominent advocate for awareness in . As an ambassador for the Epilepsy Foundation of Victoria, he participated in the 2024 Walk for event alongside fellow AFL figures and to raise funds and highlight the condition's impact on families. In October 2024, Ratten shared public statements about Tilly's seizures, describing their initial uncertainty and the relief provided by medication that has since controlled them, while emphasizing the ongoing family vigilance required. He has underscored the emotional toll, noting how the diagnosis prompted a deeper focus on family support amid the unpredictability of the condition. Ratten has also channeled personal loss into road safety advocacy, particularly after the 2015 death of his son Cooper in a car accident. In July 2025, as part of the TAC Road Safety Round, he delivered a poignant message describing the enduring trauma as a "life sentence," urging young drivers to prioritize caution and responsibility to prevent similar tragedies. His involvement builds on earlier campaigns with the Transport Accident Commission (TAC), where he has used his platform to promote safer driving habits among Victorian youth. In broader discussions on , Ratten has openly addressed the pressures of his coaching career intersecting with challenges. During an October 2024 interview on the AFL's Between Us podcast, he admitted that the cumulative stress from professional demands and personal hardships led him to rule out a return to senior coaching, prioritizing stability and well-being instead. This reflection highlights his advocacy for balancing high-stakes roles with support in .

Legacy and reception

Coaching impact

Brett Ratten's coaching tenure has been marked by innovative approaches to midfield development, particularly during Carlton's mid-2000s rebuild, where he emphasized contested ball work and transitional play to revitalize a struggling team. As senior coach from 2007 to 2012, Ratten integrated high-profile recruits like into a cohesive unit, fostering a midfield that prioritized and pressure, which laid the groundwork for three consecutive appearances. This strategy influenced subsequent rebuilds, as seen in his assistant role at Hawthorn from 2013 to 2018, where he contributed to midfield dominance under , supporting the club's four premierships through refined stoppage tactics and player rotation. At St Kilda from 2019 to 2022, Ratten adapted these principles to defensive structures, implementing a compact, pressure-based system that enhanced the Saints' backline resilience and ranked among the league's best for points against in his early seasons. Ratten's mentorship extended to key players, notably guiding at Carlton, where he credited the star's leadership and explosive output for transforming team dynamics and individual accolades, including Judd's . Similarly, at Hawthorn, Ratten played a pivotal role in Jaeger O'Meara's integration post-trade, overseeing his development in 2017 with focused inside-midfield training that culminated in strong senior performances, such as 25 disposals in a late-season outing, aiding O'Meara's All-Australian selection and the club's sustained success. These relationships underscored Ratten's player-centered approach, blending tactical instruction with personal encouragement to elevate performances toward premiership contention and personal milestones. On a broader scale, Ratten has championed pathways and resilience in AFL rebuilds, advocating for honest communication and to build sustainable cultures. His , rooted in creating winning environments through trust and accountability, was evident in Carlton's transition from to contender, emphasizing young talents' growth amid adversity. At St Kilda and later in caretaker and development roles, this focus persisted, with Ratten prioritizing two-way trust to accelerate emerging players' integration, resulting in improved team cohesion and win trajectories across tenures despite challenging starts. His emphasis on resilience has influenced AFL trends, promoting long-term development over short-term results in rebuilding phases.

Controversies and public perception

Brett Ratten's tenure as St Kilda ended abruptly in 2022, just 97 days after the club had extended his contract by two years, amid a comprehensive review of the football department and mounting pressure from fans frustrated by the team's consistent mid-table finishes. The decision, described by club president Andrew Bassat as an "incredibly hard" one he regretted, highlighted internal tensions over the club's direction and failure to reach finals, with supporters divided—some expressing shock and anger at the timing, while others endorsed the move to break a perceived cycle of mediocrity. In July 2023, tensions escalated into a public feud when St Kilda champion criticized the club's training standards as "sub-par" during Ratten's tenure on a , prompting Ratten—then serving as North Melbourne's caretaker coach—to that Riewoldt "only turned up for free physio" and lacked insight into club operations. Riewoldt's comments were seen by some as contributing to the narrative around Ratten's sacking to facilitate Ross Lyon's return, though Riewoldt maintained they addressed broader issues predating Ratten's time. The dispute was resolved publicly in August 2025 during Riewoldt's interview on Triple M's Mick in the Morning, where he clarified that his remarks never targeted Ratten personally, describing the response as a "clever but also wrong" misunderstanding and expressing respect for Ratten's contributions. Public perception of Ratten has evolved significantly, from his revered status as a Carlton player and captain known for leadership and resilience, to increased scrutiny as a coach facing high-profile sackings at Carlton in 2012 and St Kilda in 2022, often portrayed as a victim of club instability rather than outright failure. Since joining Hawthorn as head of performance and development in September 2023, however, his choice to prioritize family amid personal challenges—including his daughter's diagnosis and the lingering grief from his son's passing in 2015—has been widely admired as of 2025, reinforcing his image as a principled figure in Australian football.

Statistics

Playing statistics

Brett Ratten's AFL playing career with Carlton spanned 14 seasons from 1990 to 2003, during which he appeared in 255 games and kicked 117 goals. As a versatile known for his ball-winning ability and , Ratten accumulated 5,696 disposals at an average of 22.3 per game, alongside 748 marks (2.9 per game) and 752 tackles (3.0 per game). These figures reflect his consistent contribution in the engine room, particularly during Carlton's successful mid-1990s era, though his output was occasionally hampered by injuries. Ratten's peak performing years came in the late , highlighted by three Robert Reynolds Trophy wins as Carlton's player in 1995, 1997, and 2000 (tied with ). In 1995, the premiership-winning season, he played all 25 home-and-away games plus , averaging 22.8 disposals and earning 10 votes. His 2000 campaign stood out with 25 goals from 25 games and a career-high 27.8 disposals per game, securing 18 Brownlow votes and All-Australian selection. The following year, 2001, saw him maintain strong form with 26.1 disposals and 4.7 tackles per game across 22 matches, again earning All-Australian honors. Injuries significantly affected Ratten's availability, particularly in 1994 when a medial tear sidelined him for 14 weeks, restricting him to just 11 games. Later in his , recurring issues—including shoulder, thumb, and elbow problems—caused him to miss 15 games across 2001 and 2002, and further limited him to only 19 games combined in his final two seasons (2002–2003), prompting a shift toward a more reduced on-field role as he transitioned toward coaching. The following table summarizes Ratten's seasonal statistics, focusing on games played, goals, and average key metrics per game:
YearGamesGoalsAvg. DisposalsAvg. MarksAvg. Tackles
19901114.002.000.00
199120320.452.502.05
199219214.161.581.16
199321216.622.331.62
199411216.822.181.91
1995251222.843.123.00
199624823.133.082.71
199721624.573.143.24
199821923.902.763.19
1999261425.772.623.81
2000252527.804.603.00
2001222126.053.774.68
200212921.672.754.83
20037318.292.573.43
Career25511722.342.932.95

Coaching statistics

Brett Ratten has coached a total of 198 (AFL) games across three clubs, recording 94 wins, 103 losses, and 1 draw, which equates to an overall win percentage of 47.73%. His coaching career began as caretaker at Carlton in 2007 before becoming senior coach through 2012, followed by a stint at St Kilda from mid-2019 to 2022, and a brief caretaker role at in 2023. At Carlton, Ratten coached 120 games with 60 wins, 59 losses, and 1 draw, achieving a 50.42% win rate; this period encompassed a rebuild phase amid the club's recovery from 2002 salary cap penalties that restricted list development until the early . With St Kilda, he led the team in 68 games, securing 34 wins and 34 losses for exactly a 50% win rate, during a consolidation effort following the club's earlier finals pushes. His 2023 caretaker role at resulted in 0 wins from 10 games, as the team navigated one of its worst seasons with only three total victories for the year. In finals, Ratten's teams played 6 games, winning 2 and losing 4 for a 33.33% success rate, with appearances in 2009 (elimination final loss with Carlton), 2010 (elimination final loss with Carlton), 2011 (elimination final win and semi-final loss with Carlton), and 2020 (elimination final win and semi-final loss with St Kilda). Across () games, he coached 192 matches with 92 wins, 99 losses, and 1 draw (47.92% win rate), showing slight variations by club: Carlton at 51.29% over 116 games, St Kilda at 50% over 66 games, and at 0% over 10 games. The following table summarizes Ratten's seasonal coaching records:
YearClubGamesWinsLossesDrawsWin %Notes on Context
2007Carlton60600.00%Caretaker role post-sacking
2008Carlton221012045.45%Full season debut
2009Carlton231310056.52%First appearance
2010Carlton231112047.83% elimination loss
2011Carlton24158164.58%Best season; semi-final loss
2012Carlton221111050.00%Sacked mid-season
2019St Kilda633050.00%Mid-season appointment
2020St Kilda19118057.89%COVID-affected; win
2021St Kilda221012045.45%Postponed games due to COVID
2022St Kilda211011047.62%Sacked late season
20231001000.00%Caretaker; team rebuild
All data sourced from AFL Tables. Contexts reflect club transitions and external factors like the 2002-2010 salary penalties for Carlton and COVID disruptions in 2020-2021.

Honours and achievements

As player

During his playing career with the Carlton Football Club, Brett Ratten earned numerous accolades that highlighted his consistency, leadership, and impact as a midfielder. He won Carlton's best and fairest award, known as the Robert Reynolds Trophy (later renamed the John Nicholls Medal), on three occasions: in 1995, following a standout season where he contributed significantly to the team's premiership success; in 1997, recognizing his dominant midfield performances; and in 2000, tied with teammate Scott Camporeale for their shared excellence in disposals and clearances. Ratten's leadership was further acknowledged when he was appointed club captain for the 2002 and 2003 seasons, succeeding and guiding the team through challenging periods with his tactical acumen and on-field presence. As a key contributor to Carlton's 1995 AFL premiership victory over , Ratten played a pivotal role in the grand final, including kicking the opening goal in the 1999 grand final as a notable career highlight leading to his sustained recognition. At the national level, Ratten received two All-Australian selections in 2000 and 2001, earning acclaim for his elite ball-winning ability and endurance in the center of the ground. He was inducted into the Carlton Hall of Fame in 1999 while still an active player, honoring his rapid rise to club stardom and contributions up to that point. Ratten also represented Victoria in matches in 1996, 1997, and 1999, showcasing his versatility against interstate opposition.

As coach

As an assistant coach at Hawthorn from 2013 to 2018, Ratten contributed to four consecutive AFL premierships in 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016. As senior coach of Carlton from 2007 to 2012, Ratten led the team to three appearances (2009, 2010, and 2011), including an elimination final victory over Essendon in 2011. As senior coach of St Kilda from 2019 to mid-2022, Ratten guided the team to the 2020 finals series, where they recorded an elimination final win against the . As caretaker senior coach of for 10 games in 2023, Ratten did not secure any wins. In 2006, Ratten coached Norwood in the Eastern Districts Football League to a appearance. Across his senior AFL coaching stints at Carlton, St Kilda, and , Ratten's combined record stands at 198 games, with 94 wins, 103 losses, and 1 draw.

References

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