A recent survey has revealed widespread dissatisfaction among AFL coaches, with over 200 participants expressing feelings of underappreciation and inadequate rewards for their efforts. The findings have raised alarms for the AFL Coaches Association. Notably, dissatisfaction with pay emerged as a significant concern, highlighting that despite senior coaches earning an average of $750,000 and assistants $183,000, only seven per cent felt adequately compensated.
Moreover, job satisfaction has significantly declined, with just 37 per cent of coaches satisfied with their work-life balance, a stark drop from 60 per cent in 2019. Many assistant coaches reported facing a ‘cut-throat’ environment, working long hours yet feeling undervalued, with only one in five feeling respected by the AFL.
The pressing challenge comes in the wake of the industry thriving, particularly for players, as coaches grapple with increasing pressures. The AFL Coaches Association is urging for immediate measures to improve working conditions and perceptions, arguing that such changes are vital to make coaching a more attractive career option. The sentiment calls for a coordinated strategy to tackle these issues proactively, aiming to foster a more supportive environment for coaches at all levels.