Paul Marsh, the head of the AFL Players Association, has commented on Fremantle Dockers’ captain Alex Pearce’s recent social media support for Palestine. Pearce shared a post on Instagram from the Irish band Kneecap, which openly backs the Palestinian cause amid the ongoing Gaza conflict.
Marsh has refrained from commenting on behalf of Fremantle, Pearce’s management, or the AFL. However, he expressed his belief in players’ rights to express their opinions on complex issues like this. In an exclusive interview with 9News Melbourne, he noted the multiple perspectives surrounding the matter, stating, “We want players to be able to speak openly and share their voices, where leadership is required to show leadership.”
He raised an important question regarding boundaries: “Is there a line? And, if so, where is that line?” According to Marsh, this is an area of considerable debate, and he hopes that discussions will lead to greater understanding of intricate global issues.
Marsh also revealed that he had reached out to Pearce to discuss the post and its repercussions, confirming that Pearce was open to the conversation. He spoke highly of Pearce, having known him since Marsh took on his role at the AFL Players Association. “He’s a long-term delegate of the AFLPA and is very intelligent, someone I have deep respect for,” Marsh remarked.
Currently, Pearce has played 131 games for Fremantle and has participated in all nine matches of the 2025 season so far. In an additional development, Marsh has announced his resignation from his position at the AFLPA, transferring to a similar role with the Australian cricket union.
This unfolding situation highlights the intersection of sport and social issues, presenting the challenges faced by athletes when they engage in political discourse.