Ex-Tiger Bowden joins AFLBy Matt Thompson
Wed 29 Feb, 2012DUAL Richmond best and fairest winner Joel Bowden is set to become a central figure in talks between clubs and AFL bosses on the code's evolution.
The League has appointed the 33-year-old to the role of game analysis manager.
He replaces Andrew McKay who left to become Carlton's general manager of football over summer.
Bowden played a key role representing the interests of players in his tenure as AFLPA president from 2007-2009, and played 265 games for the Tigers between 1996-2009.
Major talking points including possible changes to the make-up of the interchange bench and the use of video reviews are likely to be an early focus of his new role.
“I am very passionate about how the game is played, ensuring that it continues to be the best game to watch and to play," Bowden said.
"I see my role as working with the key partners in the game - players, coaches, clubs and fans - to ensure our game remains at the forefront in sport.”
AFL football operations manager Adrian Anderson said Bowden would be a link between the league and clubs on rules, tribunal and other football department issues.
"The AFL Commission and the AFL is committed to maintaining AFL football as the most exciting game to play and watch," Anderson said.
"Joel will be the primary liaison with our clubs as the AFL seeks to work very closely with the AFL clubs to get their regular feedback on key areas within the game."
The AFL's also appointed an RMIT research associate to work as a football research analyst.
Patrick Clifton joins the League's football department to work on game trends and analysis.
http://www.afl.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/208/newsid/129784/default.aspx
