Ultimately, the style of play adopted by a coach will be dependent on how well a style of play maximises the team's strength. A team may even incorporate a mixture of the following styles of play.

1. Long kicking to key forwards
A team with high marking mobile forwards will maximise scoring opportunities by moving the ball quickly out of the centre, kicking long into the forward line.

2. Running, possession game
The coach of a small to medium sized team will adopt a running game, with short passing and handball to maintain possession.

3. Defensive game
A team with a strongly disciplined backline working together can move the ball forward into attack.