Dummies Guide To AFL Free Agency Post by: Strak 24 February, 2010 - 3:43 PM

Are we the only ones confused over what the introduction of 'Free Agency' means in the world of AFL Footy?

The instructions for putting together an Ikea desk and drawers is easier to decipher.

What we really want to know, is it going to help us win the flag. Will our top players be pinched by the clubs with more money? And more importantly will it help us to win the flag.

It's very similar to the way the English Premiere League handle the transfer of their players between clubs.

One thing we're certain of is that David Beckham won't be playing for the Richmond Tigers this season.

Hawthorn President Jeff Kennett has been very vocal about his dislike for the whole idea, but the rest of us can't get our heads around it enough to form an opinion.

Listen to what another President, our Eddie McGuire, thinks of the plans.

So here is the dummies guide to what 'Free Agency' is all about.

- It doesn't start until the 2012 season.

- Delisted players automatically become free agents.

- Players who have eight years' service at one club are free agents, but the top 25 per cent earners at each club are restricted.

- Restricted free agency applies to the first contract at or after eight years' service.

- Under restricted free agency, a players' current club can match the offer from a rival team.

- If the offer is matched, the player can stay, seek a trade or go into the draft.

- Restricted free agents become unrestricted after a minimum 10 years at the one club.

One thing that they can't guarantee is that this will always work in your clubs favour. St.Kilda fans will remember back in the mid '90s when goal machine Tony Locket was traded for Robert Neill and Joel Smith. Enough said.

Okay, we hope that brings a little more understanding to what 'Free Agency' means to you and your favourite team. 

Will this make trading players better or worse?

Leave your comment

• Horsey says

  Have no idea whether this is going to be a good thing. Does the draft stay or does this replace it?

  Posted Wednesday 24 February, 2010 3:39 PM
• Forever66 says

  This will work for some players and others will be continually hounded by other clubs and offered risiculous amounts of money to switch teams.

  Posted Wednesday 24 February, 2010 3:43 PM