You don’t see them, but they are the backbone of every AFL club, working tirelessly every weekend in winter. These unsung heroes spend more time in places like Ballarat, Brighton Grammar, and RSEA Park than in the stands at Marvel Stadium, Adelaide Oval, or the MCG. Their efforts go unnoticed in Monday morning reviews or on Monday night shows, yet their decisions shape the future of AFL teams.
List managers often face scrutiny during trade periods and after drafts, but the recruiting teams are much more than just a single individual. Comprising national recruiting managers, pro scouts, and data analysts, these teams are pivotal in player selection and development. Ahead of the 2025 Telstra AFL Draft, we delve into the lives and careers of these crucial figures across all 18 AFL clubs and the emerging 19th license in Tasmania.
The Unsung Architects of AFL Success
National recruiting manager Hamish Ogilvie has been instrumental in shaping the Adelaide Crows since 2007. His journey from the police force to coaching the Tassie Mariners, and eventually into scouting, highlights the diverse backgrounds of these professionals. Under his leadership, along with list manager Justin Reid, the Crows have undergone significant rebuilding.
Meanwhile, Brisbane’s back-to-back premierships are a testament to their stable recruiting team. Dom Ambrogio and Steve Conole have been pivotal in transforming the Lions from the bottom of the ladder to the pinnacle of success. Their experience and strategic insights have been crucial in identifying and nurturing talent.
Behind the Scenes: The Teams Building AFL’s Future
Carlton’s recruiting team, led by Nick Austin, has undergone significant changes since 2020. Austin’s experience across various clubs has brought a fresh perspective to the Blues. His strategic approach, coupled with the expertise of national recruiting manager Michael Agresta, has been key in shaping Carlton’s competitive edge.
Collingwood’s recent recruitment overhaul reflects their commitment to future success. With Justin Leppitsch and Shane O’Bree at the helm, the Magpies are poised to build a formidable team. Their combined experience in coaching and scouting is expected to bring a new era of success to the club.
Expert Insights and Strategic Moves
Essendon’s recruiting team, led by Matt Rosa, exemplifies strategic foresight in talent acquisition. Rosa’s transition from player to recruiter has been seamless, and his leadership is expected to guide the Bombers through a successful draft period. The addition of veteran scout Rohan O’Brien further strengthens their recruiting prowess.
At Fremantle, David Walls and his team have been diligently working since 2008 to identify and develop talent. Their focus on data-driven decision-making and strategic recruitment has positioned the Dockers as a team to watch in the coming seasons.
Challenges and Triumphs in AFL Recruitment
Geelong’s recruiting team, with Andrew Mackie at the forefront, has been instrumental in maintaining the club’s competitive edge. Mackie’s transition from player to list manager showcases the club’s commitment to leveraging internal talent and experience.
Gold Coast’s Craig Cameron has been a pivotal figure in the Suns’ recruiting efforts since 2017. His promotion to GM of football underscores his significant contributions and the trust the club places in his strategic vision.
Looking Ahead: The Future of AFL Recruitment
As the AFL continues to evolve, the role of recruiting teams becomes increasingly critical. The integration of data analytics, strategic scouting, and player development will shape the future of the sport. Clubs like Greater Western Sydney and Hawthorn are already leveraging these tools to build competitive teams.
With the upcoming 2025 Telstra AFL Draft, all eyes will be on these recruiting teams as they navigate the complexities of player selection and team building. Their decisions will not only impact the immediate success of their clubs but also set the foundation for future triumphs.
The dedication and expertise of these recruitment powerhouses are crucial in shaping the landscape of AFL. As they continue to work behind the scenes, their contributions will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy on the sport.
