AFLPA head frustrated by potential for more rule changes

AFL Players’ Association CEO Paul Marsh has called out the league for considering another change on the eve of the season.

Reports indicate the AFL is considering introducing a 23rd man to teams who will serve as a concussion sub across the season, meaning the return of infamous the green vest.

When asked what the AFLPA’s position on this was, Marsh said they were yet to come to a conclusion but were frustrated that it had been sprung on them this close to Round 1.

“We take this very seriously, and that’s an important point to make here, but the thought of introducing substitutes, the players were very much against it when it was introduced going back a few years ago, albeit it was less about injuries and concussion and more about greater flexibility on game day,” Marsh said.

“This is something where we will hopefully get to a position reasonably quickly.

“It is probably a little frustrating if I’m honest that we’re needing to consider this a week out from the season starting.

“The issue that’s being raised here is not a new issue and it’s probably something that should have been thought through some time before now, but we will work through it as I said and have a position in the coming days.”

Marsh added that overall the AFLPA has been frustrated with the league’s processes when it comes to rule changes.

“I think we’ve been on the record on this. I think the process the AFL went through to make some of these changes was pretty flawed,” he said.

“I know having spoken to a lot of coaches and obviously the players, that everyone was pretty frustrated and disappointed that this was just thrown at the industry.

“The issues we’re dealing with around concussion and the sub in our view should have been foreseen and that’s where we’re chasing our tail as an industry a week out from the first game.

“You have to look at all the unintended consequences when you make these changes and it just appears as though maybe that hasn’t been done properly and I know that’s still the feeling from coaches and players I’ve spoken to.”

-BY NIC NEGREPONTIS/ SEN