Craig Drummond Appointed AFL Commission Chair
Craig Drummond has been appointed as the new Chair of the AFL Commission, succeeding Richard Goyder, who is retiring. Drummond, a prominent Australian business leader and former President of the Geelong Cats, was elected unopposed during the Annual General Meeting held in Sydney.
Background of Craig Drummond
Drummond has held significant positions in various organizations, including as the chair of Transurban. He is regarded as one of Australia’s leading business executives.
AFL Commission History
With this appointment, Drummond becomes the sixth chair in the history of the AFL, following:
- Ross Oakley (1986-1993)
- John Kennedy (1993-1997)
- Ron Evans (1997-2007)
- Mike Fitzpatrick (2007-2017)
- Richard Goyder (2017-2023)
Drummond’s Vision for the AFL
In his initial address to fellow club presidents and executives, Drummond outlined three primary objectives that will guide his tenure:
- Enhancing the experience of fans.
- Growing the game in new markets.
- Ensuring the future of Australian football aligns with contemporary society.
He emphasized the importance of collaborating with stakeholders at all levels to achieve these goals. “The footy, the fans, and the future. That will be our mantra,” said Drummond.
Tributes to Richard Goyder
Drummond paid tribute to Goyder for his contributions, particularly during the challenging Covid-19 pandemic period. Under Goyder’s leadership, the AFL saw significant milestones, including:
- A record broadcast rights agreement.
- Expansion of the AFLW competition to 18 teams.
- New licensing for Tasmania Devils FC.
- Improved financial stability for the league.
Drummond commended Goyder’s dedication to the growth of the game, highlighting his achievements in financial strategy, stadium development, and strong club membership across the country.
Additional Recognitions and Awards
During the AFL AGM, new Life Members of the league were announced. The Jack Titus Award was jointly awarded to Colin Hooper, an Essendon volunteer, and Sharon Stephens, former SANFL Ground Operations Manager.
Furthermore, Drummond announced that former Footscray and Brisbane player Michael McLean will be honored for the Sir Doug Nicholls round. McLean, an All-Australian player and two-time best-and-fairest winner, is celebrated for his role in developing the AFL’s Anti-Vilification policy.
Craig Drummond’s appointment as AFL Commission Chair marks a pivotal moment for the league as it looks to evolve and expand under his leadership.
