According to former Saint Andrew McQualter, the language was symbolic of Ross Lyon's coaching style and his insistence on preparing the same every week, regardless of the stakes.
"I can nearly guarantee Ross will be calling it round 26 this week," McQualter told AFL.com.au.
"Nothing will change. It will be exactly the same as what he's done every other week for the year.
"The only thing that will change is the logistics of the week, but in terms of the messages for the game it'll be very consistent."
For McQualter, who played in the 2009 and 2010 Grand Finals, Lyon's consistent message and focus on preparation was the best thing about his coaching, and it generated confidence among the players.
The 27-year-old also believed it was a way for Lyon to stay on top of his game.
"I've heard him say it's the way he calms his nerves … just to go back and prepare the best you can," he said.
"That's what it's all about.
"I've also heard players say throughout the year that they have built confidence through their preparation.
"That's the same message we heard at St Kilda."
As much as Fremantle will try to maintain a normal preparation this week, Lyon acknowledged on Monday that there would be inevitable differences.
A bumper crowd at Tuesday's open training session was the first example.
"By definition it's not a normal week is it, it's Grand Final week," he said on Monday, with no reference to "round 26".
"We've got the parade over there [in Melbourne] and there will be media attention.
"Even the families and kids flying over on the plane with us will be slightly different.
"There are some differences that we acknowledge, but what's important is not to be distracted by it, just focus on what you need to do, which is preparation."
Twitter: @AFL_Nathan
