Sports science experts across the Australian Football League (AFL) have united to form the AFL High Performance Association (AFLHPA), a new body set to influence the game significantly. The association, led by the renowned Darren Burgess, Adelaide’s high-performance boss, aims to provide a unified voice for strength and conditioning professionals, sports scientists, and fitness practitioners.
Since its quiet inception last year, the AFLHPA has grown rapidly, boasting over 120 members. The group is already making its mark by offering insights on contact training, interchange rotations, and player welfare, while also providing professional development workshops. This development aligns the AFLHPA with other key associations in the sport, such as the Players Association and Coaches Association.
Formation and Objectives of the AFLHPA
The AFLHPA’s formation follows a period of significant change within the AFL’s high-performance ranks, with several clubs appointing new fitness heads. Notable appointments include Rob Inness at Carlton, Ben Serpell at Richmond, Shane Lehane at Sydney, and Desmond O’Sullivan at Geelong. The association’s membership is open to full-time and part-time high-performance staff from AFL and AFLW teams, as well as second-tier clubs.
The AFLHPA aims to position the AFL industry as a leader in athlete performance enhancement. The group is actively involved in discussions with the AFL on scheduling decisions and the future direction of the game, with a focus on player preparation and safety. They are also addressing turf management and data collection improvements.
Driving Innovation and Collaboration
One of the AFLHPA’s key goals is to foster innovation through the sharing of information across the industry. All 18 AFL clubs’ high-performance bosses are members, creating a collegiate environment that encourages collaboration. The association is working on developing a framework for ‘top-up running’ protocols for players needing additional training post-games, primarily substitutes.
Additionally, the AFLHPA is advocating for more detailed guidelines regarding the player heat policy, ensuring athlete safety in extreme weather conditions. An end-of-year summit in November is planned, alongside monthly personal development sessions, to further these initiatives.
Expert Opinions and Industry Impact
According to Darren Burgess, the AFLHPA’s chairman, the association represents a crucial step forward for the industry. “Our aim is to ensure that high-performance staff have a significant voice in the game, contributing to both player welfare and the overall advancement of the sport,” he stated.
“Our aim is to ensure that high-performance staff have a significant voice in the game, contributing to both player welfare and the overall advancement of the sport.” – Darren Burgess, Chairman of AFLHPA
Sports science experts believe that the AFLHPA’s establishment could lead to more standardized practices across clubs, improving player performance and reducing injury risks. The association’s efforts in professional development are also expected to enhance the skills and knowledge of its members, benefiting the entire AFL community.
Future Prospects and Challenges
As the AFLHPA continues to grow, it faces the challenge of maintaining momentum and ensuring its initiatives translate into tangible benefits for the sport. The upcoming summit and ongoing workshops will be critical in setting the association’s agenda and addressing key issues within the industry.
Looking ahead, the AFLHPA’s success will depend on its ability to influence policy and drive change within the AFL. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the association hopes to not only enhance player performance but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of the sport.
The AFLHPA’s emergence marks a significant development in the landscape of AFL sports science, promising to bring about positive change and elevate the standards of high performance within the league.
