Have you ever been in a team where the structure looks perfect on paper… but the connection is missing?

This week I’m joined by Tom Cashin – Collingwood VFLW Head Coach and Head of Academy (AFLW) – for a raw, honest chat on what actually creates high-performing teams.

We unpack Tom’s people-first coaching philosophy, why he wants athletes setting goals they’re not guaranteed to reach, and how to change your relationship with failure so it becomes growth (not defeat).

Tom also breaks down his approach to movement mechanics and role-specific training – and why “quality reps over quantity reps” is the edge most athletes are missing.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why teams can look “perfect” on paper but still lack real connection
• The coaching shift Tom made at Collingwood – from structure-first to connectedness-first
• Psychological safety – how to create an environment where athletes play with freedom
• Why athletes should set goals they might not reach (and why that’s the point)
• Reframing failure – separating performance from identity
• The difference Tom noticed coaching boys vs coaching women
• Training with intent – quality reps over quantity reps
• Role-specific development: training for what your position actually demands
• Why aligning AFL and AFLW game days could accelerate women’s sport
• What Tom would tell his younger self (and what he hopes for his daughter)

Resources + links

• Follow 4TG on socials @4tg_podcast & subscribe on YouTube
• Website: https://4tg.com.au/
• Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/4tg_podcast ☕
• Tom Cashin (Movement Mechanics): @cashinmovementmechanics
• Buy Tom's Cashin Movement Mechanics Performance Dashboard

Support the show

Did this episode inspire you?

• Please subscribe to 4TG, leave a five-star review, and share it with an athlete, parent or coach who needs to hear it.
• Follow @4TG_Podcast on all socials and visit us at 4tg.com.au.

1:1 Athlete Mentoring – Confidence and Champion’s Mindset

• Want 1:1 support to build real self-belief and perform with freedom? The 4TG 1:1 Athlete Mentoring is a 6-week program for driven female athletes who want to back themselves, lead with confidence and play to their strengths – on the field and off it.
• We will work on mindset, habits, resilience, leadership and handling pressure with a clear plan and accountability each week.
• If you are ready to stop overthinking and start playing with freedom, apply now via 4tg.com.au or DM me "MENTORING" on Instagram @4tg_podcast.

Want to support 4TG?

• Individuals - help us keep the movement going by donating or becoming a 4TG member at https://buymeacoffee.com/4tg_podcast ☕
• For brand collaborations or sponsorships, email: [email protected]

4TG Discount codes:

• Younify Active – 10% off athlete supplements 👉 Grab yours h...