Established in 2007, reinvigorated in 2021
History
The SANFL Players’ Association has been around since 2007. But for most of this century it existed only in name.
That is, until 2021 when a group of passionate SANFL players got together at a pub on the outskirts of the city to talk about the issues that are of importance to all players.
After a series of follow up meetings amongst themselves and with the SANFL, the group of players resolved that the best way to represent all SANFL players was to form a players’ association.
But before that, they needed to put their idea to the wider playing group.
Surveying the players
Over two nights in July 2021, League and Reserves players from each of the eight standalone SANFL clubs were invited to complete a survey that asked for their views on establishing a players’ association. In total, 357 players completed the survey.
The results were emphatic.
The players wanted to unite under a players’ association.
In November 2021 the Rules of the SANFL Players’ Association were endorsed at a meeting of players and once again SANFL players were in a position to deliver a united voice.
The journey
The SANFL, players and Clubs share a common objective - to make the SANFL the best it can be.
Although change can sometimes be uncomfortable and there may be disagreements along the way, we believe that a partnership between the players and the SANFL puts the competition in the strongest position to continue to grow.
Since 2021 the SANFL and the SANFLPA have been meeting regularly. We have always looked at ways to collaborate. Whether that be in surveying the players to better understand what motivates players to play in the SANFL, or updating the players on the state of the game, the SANFLPA is committed to fostering a long term partnership with the SANFL.
Ultimately the strength of the players’ voice depends on the players’ commitment to unite and be organised.