Key Issues Discussed by AFL Chief Executive Andrew Dillon
During an appearance on Fox Footy’s AFL360, AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon addressed a range of pressing issues facing the league. The discussion covered various topics, including the return of James Hird to Essendon as senior coach, challenges faced by Victorian clubs, the development of a stadium in Tasmania, and the future of Gather Round and representative football.
James Hird’s Return to Essendon
Dillon commented on the potential return of James Hird to Essendon as senior coach. He noted that Hird had previously coached the Bombers in 2015 after a year away from the game. Since then, Hird has been an assistant coach at the GWS Giants and remains active with Port Melbourne in the VFL.
“Ultimately, it’ll be a decision that the Essendon footy club will make,” Dillon said. He also mentioned that he had spoken to the club’s chief executive, but the topic did not come up during their conversation.
Struggles of Big Victorian Clubs
Three of the bottom four clubs in the competition are big Victorian sides: Essendon, Richmond, and Carlton. Dillon acknowledged that there are cycles in an equalised competition and emphasized the importance of supporting these clubs, which are located in areas with large crowds, high participation, and significant talent.
“You can see upside in Carlton and Essendon,” he said. “When you look at the ladder and see three of the bottom four clubs Victorian, there has to be someone in 18th position.”
Tasmania Stadium Development
Dillon highlighted the progress being made on the stadium project in Tasmania. He praised the efforts of Brendon Gale and Grant O’Brien, who are leading the initiative. While acknowledging the complexity of the project, he confirmed that the stadium is the top priority and is on track for completion.
“There’s two builders in it, so it’s a competitive tender. And then we’ll deal with whatever comes,” he said. The stadium is expected to be built by 2028, with teams licensed to use it starting from that year.
Gather Round and Representative Football
Regarding Gather Round, Dillon mentioned that the league is finalizing details. He noted that legal complexities can slow things down, but the event is expected to happen sooner rather than later.
On the topic of state-based representative football, Dillon said there is strong interest in events like State of Origin. The AFL is in discussions with different governments about future plans for representative matches.
“Just keep the (Vic jumper) on the hanger,” he added, indicating that Victoria’s involvement in such events remains a priority.
Mid-Season Byes and Schedule Adjustments
Dillon discussed the balance between providing players with rest and maintaining a consistent schedule. He explained that byes are necessary, especially with the introduction of the Tassie team, which may require a bye every weekend.
“We want to make sure we keep a Thursday night game, a Friday night game, three games on Super Saturday, which is really important, particularly for the major broadcasters. And then we also want to have a couple games on a Sunday.”
Wildcard Round and Fan Engagement
Dillon expressed growing confidence in the wildcard round, noting that it provides hope for fans and keeps the season exciting. He pointed out that even teams near the bottom of the ladder can still have a chance to compete.
“What it does do, and you look at the ladder we’ve got now. Carlton wins two games in a row and are a couple games out. It gives hope to the fans, and that’s an important part of it.”
Waverley and Caulfield Training Grounds
The potential relocation of Melbourne’s training grounds from Casey to Waverley or Caulfield was also discussed. Dillon mentioned ongoing conversations with the club but stressed that the details are not his responsibility.
“For a short time, it will be important for Richmond, if Melbourne did move, it opens up Gosch’s Paddock for Richmond. The beauty is, it’s a ground for the industry. Freo trained on it the other week before they played the Bombers, and it worked really well.”
