AFL Chief Executive Andrew Dillon Champions Opening Round and State of Origin Future
AFL boss Andrew Dillon has robustly defended the league's Opening Round concept, while firmly stating that the State of Origin is set to remain a permanent fixture following its recent successful revival. In a significant development, Dillon has also expressed keen interest in securing a spot for Australian Rules football at the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, potentially through exhibition matches.
Opening Round Success and Strategic Focus on NSW and Queensland
The competition's chief executive was in Sydney on Monday to promote the Opening Round, which features home games for all four clubs based in New South Wales and Queensland, with only a single match scheduled in Victoria. Despite queries from many regarding the absence of a full round of fixtures and the lack of games in Victoria, Perth, and Adelaide, Dillon emphasized that this format has led to bumper crowds for Round 1.
"What we've found in the last couple of years is that focus on NSW and Queensland is helping to grow awareness in NSW and Queensland and at the same time it hasn't taken away from our round one," Dillon stated. He highlighted that the last two Round 1 events have been the highest attended rounds in AFL history, with over 400,000 spectators each year. Specifically, last year saw a record 451,000 people attending, underscoring the strategy's effectiveness.
Dillon pointed out that New South Wales is super important for the AFL to continue growing the game, and Opening Round is key to that objective. This approach aims to increase awareness, participation, attendance, and viewership across both New South Wales and Queensland. He noted that clubs like the Swans, Giants, Lions, and Suns all experienced record membership rises and crowds last year, directly attributed to the success of Opening Round.
Potential Olympic Showcase and Collaboration with NRL
Looking ahead, Dillon discussed the possibility of Australian Rules football being featured at the Brisbane 2032 Olympics. Brisbane 2032 board president Andrew Liveris has already opened the door for the AFL and NRL to be involved with exhibition matches, suggesting opportunities to showcase these sports on a global stage. Dillon affirmed that the AFL will take this offer and run with it, citing a precedent from the 1956 Melbourne Olympics where Australian Rules football was an exhibition sport.
"I think our sport is a sport that should be on that stage, and we'll work closely with the Olympic Committee on what format that takes," Dillon said. Footy legend Kevin Sheedy has previously advocated for using State of Origin, rather than a club fixture, to showcase the game at the Olympics, a suggestion Dillon appears to support as part of ongoing discussions.
On the topic of other codes, Dillon mentioned watching a little of the NRL's opening round in Las Vegas over the weekend, praising its execution. He added that the AFL and NRL work together closely on various initiatives, though each league approaches its season start differently. This collaboration could extend to the Olympics, linking the two codes in a shared national display.
International Growth and Player Feedback on State of Origin
Dillon recently traveled to India, where he observed significant potential for AFL growth, with nearly 10,000 boys and girls playing the game and national championships involving 10 states. While he did not commit to AFL games being played there, he was encouraged by the enthusiasm and enjoyment shown by participants.
Regarding State of Origin, Dillon received positive feedback from players involved in the recent game between Western Australia and Victoria. He suggested the concept would continue to evolve over the next three to five years, though he did not confirm if an Allies team from Queensland and NSW would definitely feature. "The feedback was they (the players) would have preferred to extend the time in camp," Dillon explained, noting achievements in training, team bonding, and community visits. He affirmed that State of Origin is here to stay in one form or another, with pre-season timing working well based on experiences like the All Stars and Origin events.
Rule Changes and Future Directions
Dillon also addressed the AFL's various rule changes, expressing positivity about their impact despite some concerns from players like Melbourne ruck Max Gawn. "What we will see is changes that will speed up the game and keep the ball in motion longer, that's what our fans want, fast moving footy," he stated, emphasizing the league's commitment to enhancing the spectator experience.
Overall, Dillon's comments highlight a strategic vision for the AFL, focusing on domestic growth through initiatives like Opening Round, maintaining State of Origin as a key event, and exploring international opportunities such as the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and expansion into markets like India.
