AFL tells clubs there should be no shock over forecasted draft changes at key meeting

THE AFL yesterday reinforced to clubs that changes to the draft value index and bidding system could still be implemented in the coming months.

The league yesterday held talks with club presidents and CEO’s where it was made clear there should be no shock over the forecast changes.

Several clubs have railed against the timing of the potential move with Carlton coach Michael Voss this week telling Fox Footy: “To me it’s quite confusing …  we shouldn’t be making this decision four months out from decisions that were made 12 months ago or even two years.”

The AFL will sit down with club list managers on the latest plans next week, dividing the clubs into three briefing sessions.

Most clubs believe the top 20 draft picks are set to increase in value, while picks beyond 40 will no longer have any value attached to them. The wide-ranging meeting was initially dominated by Port Adelaide chairman David Koch, who was said to have arrived with his own agenda items.

One club official said Koch uttered words to the effect of: “I’m not trying to channel Jeff Kennett here, but …”

Concussion, funding and the national reserves competition were among the subjects Koch wanted to discuss off the top in what was a rapid-fire opening.

Attendees largely welcomed the debate and conversation, adding Koch had always been prepared to stand up and talk about elements of the competition that are important to him and his club.

The AFL made no proposals in relation to the illicit drugs policy, which is currently being reviewed.

The clubs were instead told to again break into smaller groups and discuss a range of questions relating to the much-debated policy.

The CEO’s are aligned in the belief that the policy should continue to be based on a welfare model rather than a punitive one.

But most agreed there needed to be a stronger level of accountability introduced to the system for those players who choose to not engage like they should.

The Tasmania Devils and the future of the Gabba were also discussed, with the AFL due to sit down again with club CEO’s in Perth next month.