There was a lot to like about our AFL Season but right now, the disappointment of our finals campaign still lingers. It was a missed opportunity however, we made progress and if someone had told us during the pre-season we were going to rise to minor premiers and play two home finals, many of us would have been excited.

That said, we’re obviously far from satisfied. Finals footy gives you feedback and we certainly walk away with some learnings, and a clear understanding of the pressure and intensity we must absorb and deliver against. We would like to hope we’ll be better for the experience and especially if we see further growth from our core young talent. 

Things move quickly once the season comes to an end and over the past few days the coaches held exit meetings with all players, who have now officially started their leave. Change is inevitable and Brodie Smith announced his retirement yesterday. After 273 AFL games across 15 seasons, he sits eighth on our all-time games played list and leaves knowing the Club is better for his contribution. Well done Smithers!

I’d like to acknowledge Lachie Murphy, who is a great club person, for his efforts over the best part of a decade as well. Murph didn’t get offered another contact and nor did Kieran Strachan, who is as selfless as anyone at the Club and he will continue to be involved with our AFLW program. Tough calls were also made on Harry Schoenberg, who departs after 62 games over six years, and Karl Gallagher. Each of them gave their all and we thank them for their dedication. As you know, Matt Crouch recently announced his retirement and in typical fashion, he opted for a low-key departure with next to no fanfare.

At this time of year, I often get asked about the trade period and what we may or may not be planning. The reality is our list management team has been doing work behind the scenes for many months. I can assure you we will once again be specific and aggressive with our recruiting approach. This does not mean you always land the players you target but we are giving it our absolute best shot. You will find we won’t be responding to each and every rumour or story that comes our way in the weeks ahead, and no doubt there will be plenty of them. We’ll be sure to let you know of any tangible news as soon as possible.

While the men’s season is over, our AFLW team is right in the thick of things. We have not yet consistently played to our full potential but we appear to be building momentum. Unfortunately, we are going to miss Caitlin Gould and we wish her well for the recovery from a broken wrist.

We’re up against Gold Coast on Sunday and then the following week the Club will play its 100th AFLW match. Better yet (and touch wood), it’ll be Ebony Marinoff’s 100th as well. To think that she’s played every possible game, since we entered the competition as a foundation club, is phenomenal. Ebony is as professional, resilient and tough as any player going around!

From an administration viewpoint, there is no downtime and aside from core business activities, we enter a period of review. This takes in all departments and includes the finals ticketing process, which we will improve, if we progress to September next year. 

And finally, I would like to say a very big thank you to all of you for another season of passionate support and loyalty. To have a Club record 81,067 members is an incredible achievement. Let’s get behind our AFLW side as the players, coaches and staff push to make finals. Go Crows!

Tim