AFL Players association chief executive Brendon Gale will later this morning be announced as the new CEO of Richmond football club, replacing Steven Wright.
Richmond has called a press conference for 11am to confirm the appointment.
The signing is a major coup for the Tigers, the highly respected Gale long expected to be earmarked for a senior role at the AFL.
Under Gale's stewardship, the earnings of AFL players have sky-rocketed, the average player now earning over $200,000.
Gale played 244 games for the Tigers between 1990 and 2001. He is a close friend of former teammate Tony Free, Richmond football director and board member.
Gale's appointment will make Richmond a more attractive target for prospective recruits, with Gale's reputation as an advocate of player welfare ensuring him the respect of the industry.
The AFLPA is meeting today, with Matt Finnis a likely candidate as interim executive.
http://www.theage.com.au/news/sport/gale-to-become-richmond-ceo/2009/08/10/1249756238129.html