The original and pre-eminent footy power list is back again in 2023!
Movers and Shapers highlights the 50 most powerful people in the AFL.
The AFL Record’s senior writer Ash Browne has compiled his power rankings list starting at 50 and counting down to 1.
See 20-11 below:
20. NICOLE LIVINGSTONE
AFL General Manager, Women’s Football
Last year: 17
Entitled to take a breather after a fantastic effort in delivering two complete seasons in 2022 and with the expansion clubs now bedded down. But the women’s game needs more cash and more resources and there are reports that a total rebadge is on the way.
19. BAILEY SMITH
Western Bulldogs midfielder
Last year: 24
2022 was, well, interesting with the ‘white powder scandal’, admitted mental health issues and an ongoing hip complaint. Still, with a League-leading 354,000 Instagram followers his popularity transcends the Dogs. He is a marketer’s dream.
18. STUART FOX
MCC chief executive
Last year: 40
The MCG reclaimed its status as the home of football last season, but what will keep Fox busy this year is future of the Shane Warne Stand. It is a huge decision. Refurbish or Rebuild? Announcements are imminent.
17. DAISY PEARCE
Broadcaster, coach
Last year: 23
Her distinguished playing career finished on a perfect note – Melbourne’s AFLW premiership. She’s already nailed TV commentary and success now beckons as a coach at Geelong.
16. CRAIG KELLY
Collingwood chief executive
Last year: 15
Steps from his long time role as the boss of the powerful TLA to the big chair at the club where he played in the 1990 premiership. Together with president Jeff Browne, they bring influence, ambition and a ruthless streak to the surging Pies.
15. GERARD WHATELEY
Broadcaster, commentator, host
Last year: 29
Sets the agenda both on SEN in the mornings and that evening on Fox Footy’s AFL 360. Winner of multiple industry awards and a sounding board for many senior footy people.
14. CHRIS SCOTT
Geelong coach
Last year: -
Landed his second flag at the Cats last year, 11 years after his first. Scott is a master strategist and communicator, but a listener and a delegator. His big picture views are always worth considering and sought after by the AFL.
13. PAUL CONNORS
Player manager
Last year: 18
Together with business partners Robbie D’Orazio and Nick Gieschen, this is the power AFL player management stable. Already has presumptive 2023 No.1 draft pick Harley Reid on his books.
12. LAURA KANE
AFL Competition Manager
Last year: 13
With Brad Scott’s departure she is now the most senior football executive at AFL House. Day to day management of the AFL’s core business – the men’s and women’s competitions – rests with her.
11. STEVE HOCKING
Geelong CEO
Last year: 34
Not content with basking contentedly with the improvements to the on-field spectacle he wrought as the AFL footy boss, he is similarly driven at Geelong, turning an already great club into a powerhouse.
2023 AFL MOVERS AND SHAPERS: 50-41
2023 AFL MOVERS AND SHAPERS: 40-31
2023 AFL MOVERS AND SHAPERS: 30-21
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