Matthew Nicks: The Architect of Adelaide’s Rebuild

Matthew Nicks is the current senior coach of the Adelaide Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). Appointed in October 2019, his tenure has been largely defined by a significant rebuild of the Crows’ playing list and a shift in the club’s culture.

Prior to taking the reins at Adelaide, Nicks established himself as a highly regarded assistant coach. He spent nine seasons at the Greater Western Sydney (GWS) Giants under coaches Kevin Sheedy and Leon Cameron. His roles at GWS spanned various responsibilities, including midfield coach, forwards coach, and ultimately, senior assistant coach. He was credited for his strong communication skills, innovative game plan ideas, and ability to connect with players, contributing significantly to the Giants’ rise as a premiership contender.

Nicks inherited a challenging situation at Adelaide. The club was reeling from a disappointing 2018 season and a tumultuous 2019 that saw them miss the finals and undergo significant personnel changes. Recognizing the need for a fresh start, Nicks and the club embarked on a deliberate rebuild, focusing on developing young talent and establishing a sustainable, winning culture. This involved making tough decisions, trading away experienced players in exchange for draft picks and younger players with potential.

The early years of Nicks’ coaching career at Adelaide were undoubtedly difficult. The team struggled on the field, enduring a winless 2020 season. While the lack of immediate success drew criticism, Nicks remained steadfast in his commitment to the long-term vision. He emphasized the importance of process, resilience, and creating a supportive environment where young players could learn and develop. He focused on building strong relationships with his players, fostering a sense of unity and purpose within the team.

In recent seasons, the fruits of Nicks’ rebuild have started to become apparent. The Crows have shown significant improvement, both in their on-field performance and their overall competitiveness. The development of key young players like Darcy Fogarty, Riley Thilthorpe, and Jordan Dawson, has been instrumental in the team’s resurgence. Nicks’ emphasis on a fast, attacking game style has also been a contributing factor. While consistent success remains the ultimate goal, the Adelaide Football Club, under Matthew Nicks, has clearly taken significant steps in the right direction.

Beyond the tactical and strategic aspects of coaching, Nicks is known for his authentic and empathetic leadership style. He is a strong communicator who is able to connect with players from diverse backgrounds and experience levels. His ability to build strong relationships and foster a positive team culture has been crucial in navigating the challenges of a rebuild and instilling belief in the Crows’ future.