Brisbane — In a twist that stunned social media and left Brisbane Lions supporters blinking at their screens, head coach Chris Fagan issued a tongue-in-cheek, mock “official statement” during a club media day — announcing that he was “filing for divorce” from his wife Ursula… from watching football with him at home.
The light-hearted confession, delivered with trademark Fagan dry humour, instantly sent sections of the fan base into temporary panic before the coach clarified it was all part of a joke about household footy stress management.
“We just can’t watch Lions games together anymore,” Fagan laughed.
He explained that Ursula had developed a habit of “providing live commentary, tactical adjustments, and injury-time prayer rituals” that made him more nervous at home than in the coaching box.
“She’s brilliant, but I can’t coach the side and get coached at home as well,” Fagan joked.
“So I’m filing for divorce — from shared game-day viewing. Everything else is perfectly fine!”
The room erupted in laughter as he waved a mock document titled “Domestic Game-Day Separation Agreement.”
Fans React in Shock, Then Relief
Within minutes, social platforms lit up with Lions fans expressing confusion, alarm, and then amusement as the full context emerged.
- “I nearly choked on my Weet-Bix. Don’t scare us like that, Fages.”
- “Peak off-season chaos. I was ready to hold a press conference myself.”
- “Ursula for Assistant Coach confirmed.”
Even players reportedly teased Fagan during training, asking whether they needed to “mediate the breakup.”
Fagan’s Explanation: Why the ‘Divorce’ Was Necessary
Chris elaborated—still laughing—that the playful announcement was his way of highlighting how emotionally charged the AFL season can be for families.
“Footy doesn’t stay on the field. Our loved ones ride the highs and lows with us. But sometimes you’ve got to draw a line to keep the household peaceful,” he said.
He added that Ursula fully supports the “domestic separation,” joking that she will now watch games from the “Ursula Coaches’ Box,” otherwise known as the backyard patio with a portable radio.
The Lions’ Official Statement
Later that afternoon, the Brisbane Lions posted a clarifier:
“To confirm: Chris and Ursula Fagan remain very much together. Only their shared game-day viewing has been placed on playful, temporary suspension.”
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