INTERVIEW - Ben Rutten Port GM - 02 September 2026
Summary
Port Adelaide head of football Ben Runton discusses the club's 2026 season, acknowledging challenges with player availability while highlighting the positive development of seven debutants. The conversation centers on the upcoming trade period, where Runton emphasizes that any deal involving star player Zach will prioritize the club's long-term best interests over simple pick-for-player swaps. He also outlines a new, holistic approach to player development that integrates coaching responsibilities across the entire staff rather than relying solely on dedicated development roles.
Topics discussed
BNF recap and Jason Horn-Francis award
2026 season review and player development
Reflections on new role and football department
Looking ahead to 2027 and trade period
Zach's trade philosophy and complex negotiations
Zach's decision-making and commitment to team
Trade variables and uncertainty in deal structure
Coaching structure and development priorities
Season wrap-up and player break status
Holistic approach to player development
Andy Collins' role and coaching support
List management and delisting decisions
Preseason return dates and player engagement
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