Geelong great endorsed for AFL head of footy job

GWS Giants CEO Dave Matthews has delivered a glowing endorsement for Jimmy Bartel to become the AFL’s next footy boss.

The critical role, which has not been filled on a permanent basis since Brad Scott accepted Essendon’s senior coaching gig last year, is widely reported to be Brendon Gale’s if he wants it.

And even though there may be room for a Bartel-type to work underneath Gale in a more footy-focussed job, Matthews believes the Brownlow medallist is equipped for the main role should Gale decide to stay at Richmond.

“Jimmy Bartel is as well-credentialed as anyone in the competition for a role like that,” Matthews said on SEN’s Crunch Time on Sunday.

“I think he’d be outstanding.”

Matthews has worked closely with Bartel for several years on the Giants board. As footy director, Bartel was the key plank in appointing Adam Kingsley as coach and has been at the forefront of trade discussions annually.

Though he would prefer to keep the three-time premiership Cat at GWS, a senior role at the AFL would see Bartel leave with Matthews’ blessings.

“Most people really laude Jimmy’s opinions and insights when he is performing in the media,” he said.

“He’s done a fantastic job for us so far. While we don’t want to see him depart our board, for an opportunity like that, we’d certainly be very supportive.”

Bartel has made no secret of his desire to be the general manager of football at the AFL.

His wide-ranging skill set has seen him work across two clubs, the now slimmed-down match review panel, executive search for Touchstone, and in print, digital, television and radio media forums.

“The fact that he’s gone out and explored opportunities to look at Brisbane’s list strategy and then taken on our director of footy role,” Matthews said.

“He understands therefore what is going on in the expansion markets of Queensland and New South Wales.

“That is obviously set against the pedigree of Brownlow Medal, premiership, Norm Smith Medal, he sat on the match review panel.”

Laura Kane is currently the interim footy boss and the AFL has not confirmed when it would like to fill the vacancy on a permanent basis.

– SEN