The AFL football department has endured a significant change, with umpires boss Peter Schwab axed after just a year in the role.
Channel 7’s Tom Browne told SEN Breakfast this morning that the decision was made “late last week.” He also mentioned new football operations manager Steve Hocking is keen to make changes quickly, and “broader sweeping changes” are also expected to be made.
"Whilst I have enjoyed my year being the national head of umpiring and I thank the AFL for the opportunity, I have come to realise my passion and skill set lie more with football than they do with umpiring," Schwab said.
"Having said that, I admire the skills, integrity and professionalism that Hayden Kennedy, the AFL umpiring department staff and the AFL umpires bring to their important role in our game and I wish them all the best."
Hocking admitted the umpiring role is a vital one, along with wishing Schwab all the best in the future.
"Attracting and supporting umpires at every level of our game remains a considerable challenge, and building increased capacity in our umpiring department is a critical task for me as the new general manager of football," he said.
"Peter took over the role at a critical time for the AFL, and after managing the department in 2017 is seeking new challenges. On behalf of the AFL, I thank Peter for his commitment and wish him well for the future.”
In December last year, Schwab departed the Brisbane Lions, where he was the list manager. He also spent time as Hawthorn’s senior coach from 2000-2004, along with working with the AFL in the late 1990’s.