Of the AFL’s Andrew Dillon—identified only by his first name—chief executive and commissioner of … All right! He is dealing with a unique set of issues that threaten the league’s integrity and operation as a whole. Unfortunately, Dillon’s tenure has been anything but peaceful at league headquarters. Complaints have focused on meeting umpiring standards, the fairness of the justice and suspension systems, and the recent exits of top executives.
Dillon has been no stranger to harsh criticism about the AFL’s justice system and approach to suspensions. Fans and analysts alike have vocally scrutinized some of the league’s choices, claiming to have been cheated by them. Australian football’s silencing came to an explosive head when the AFL announced it would take free-to-air football off Saturday broadcasts. Caroline Wilson called this approach one of “alienating a huge group of fans.”
“Andrew, the umpiring is in serious trouble at the moment, and a significant section of football lovers feel completely abandoned by the removal of free-to-air football from their Saturday TV screens,” – Caroline Wilson
The recent departure of longtime executive Tanya Hosch in June has only added to Dillon’s precarious position. The political fallout from her exit has sparked widespread concern about the ongoing stability of the AFL’s leadership. Dillon has come under fire in the wake of the footy boss Laura Kane’s demotion, which he maintains wasn’t personal.
Despite these controversies, Dillon has remained accessible to the media, actively engaging in discussions to address the concerns of fans and clubs. He’s gone to every media outlet available, including even popular right-leaning radio shows, to tell his side of the story. Media personality Craig Hutchison came out strongly in defence of Dillon’s controversial recent moves. He pointed out that Dillon has already made big moves to address the issues the league is facing head on.
“I disagree with you, Caroline. I think he’s had a very good four or five days in making strong decisions,” – Craig Hutchison
Dillon understands that umpiring is a messed up system. He’s recently shrugged off some of the harsh criticism leveled at the existing standards. He observed that clubs are now publicly lobbying for a re-introduction of three umpires. That’s an unmistakable sign that they’ve recognized the demand for a profound shift in their approach to officiating.
“Clubs are now openly saying we’ve got to go back to three umpires,” – [no specific name mentioned]
Wilson has publicly aired her concerns about Dillon’s communications approach. Me too, baseball, me too. Going further, she implores him to put himself in fans’ shoes and face these issues directly. She argued that his answers have been disingenuous, demanding more honesty in his administration.
“You should be honestly acknowledging this, and find a way to show supporters how worried you are about it, instead of answering questions by rote,” – Caroline Wilson
Dillon is figuring out to dance across that complex terrain. His overarching priority will be restoring confidence among fans and stakeholders in the AFL.
