Why a lack of training is costing AFL teams crucial wins this year; Hawthorn Hawks, Geelong Cats

Where else would any professional get a 15-week off-season holiday? In the league’s collective bargaining agreement, AFL players also receive an additional break for a few weeks across Christmas, plus three mandatory four-day rest periods during the season.

The clubs also must give the players at least one full day off each week. It is a dream job, but the results on the field are far from dreamy.