Greg Swann has officially commenced his role as the new head of footy at the AFL, and his agenda is expected to be packed. Among his initial tasks will be a tour of AFL House and settling into his new office, but the pressing question remains: what should be his immediate priorities?
Early indications suggest that Swann is keen to address the length of AFL matches, particularly the idle time that accumulates during quarters. Reducing game time is a worthy goal, but it shouldn’t be his sole focus during the off-season.
To help him navigate his new position, several potential changes to the rules could be beneficial. This analysis outlines five changes that Swann should consider implementing quickly, while steering clear of broader initiatives like a mid-season trade period or revamping the draft academy system.
One major change fans have long called for is the elimination of the substitute rule. Players feel demoralised sitting on the bench, and coaches find it confusing. By removing the sub rule, teams could potentially add another player to their rotation, leading to a more dynamic game.
Another point of contention is the bounce. Many umpires support abolishing it due to the physical strain it imposes, and the bounce often results in unpredictable outcomes that can unfairly impact the game. Transitioning away from this tradition may simplify umpiring and prioritise skill over arbitrary rituals.
There’s also a need to reconsider recent alterations in ruck rules, which have favoured stronger players over those who employ technique and agility. Coaches have noted a decline in the effectiveness of ruck tactics, indicating the necessity for a reversion to previous rules that enhance ruckman strategy during play.
Furthermore, the ‘stand’ rule lacks clarity and purpose. Currently, it permits players too much leeway, which diminishes its effectiveness. Swann will need to either enforce stricter regulations or scrap the rule altogether to restore the intended pace of the game.
Lastly, the bye rounds could benefit from a rethink. The current structure, spanning several weeks, disrupts the flow of the season. Either condensing the bye periods or adjusting game schedules during these weeks could preserve the competition’s momentum.
In summary, Swann’s first week as the AFL head of footy presents an opportunity to drive significant changes. Addressing these five areas—removing the sub rule, scrapping the bounce, reverting ruck rules, clarifying the stand rule, and restructuring bye rounds—could help enhance the game and improve the experiences of players and fans alike.