Tigers footy boss explains why AFL makes free agency system “tough”By SEN
5 Oct 2018 Richmond footy boss Neil Balme says the public nature of the AFL’s player movement market makes it hard for clubs to remain respectful of the process.
The Tigers officially lodged a deal for Gold Coast restricted free agent Tom Lynch today, with the Suns now having three days to match the deal. It is expected they won’t, and will receive pick three in this year’s draft as compensation.
Lynch’s move to Punt Road was a constant theme throughout the 2018 season, something Balme doesn’t understand.
“It’s a pretty complicated system, it’s made pretty tough,” Balme told SEN’s KB and The Doc.
“When the AFL introduced the system, they make it very public for the whole year, but then no one is really allowed to do anything about it.
“Everyone talks about it but you’re not supposed to do anything.
“It’s been very hard for us to be respectful for the player and the club, but still have a genuine interest.
“We are really pleased he has chosen us. It was obviously a pretty tough time for him.
“We are hopeful that they won’t match it and it will all work.
“We are hopeful it comes through and he plays some good footy for the Tigers, I’m sure he will.”
Balme didn’t confirm the length of the deal, but clarified it is “long-term” one.
https://www.sen.com.au/news/2018/10/05/tigers-footy-boss-explains-why-afl-makes-free-agency-system-tough/