Tom Harley to Leave AFL NSW/ACT

Harley told his staff this morning that he had decided now is the right time to take a step back and to focus on his young family and his Channel 7 commentary commitments whilst furthering his tertiary education.　

Harley has been head of AFL NSW/ACT since 2011, and has been responsible for all game development activities across these markets. During his time as General Manager, participation has grown from 136,000 to 178,000 (31 per cent) and he has overseen record NSW/ACT players on AFL lists, the launch of the NEAFL and the inaugural Independent Schools’ AFL Competition in Sydney and continued community facility development.

AFL Chief Executive Officer Andrew Demetriou paid tribute to Harley’s achievements.

“Tom has made a big contribution to the ongoing growth of the game in NSW and the ACT, and we look forward to him applying his skills and experience in a future role within the industry,” Mr Demetriou said.

Harley said he felt privileged to have been afforded the opportunity to promote Australian football and share it with the people of NSW and the ACT.

“The game is in great shape for future generations and, on the back of the Sydney Swans and GWS GIANTS, we now have an AFL game in NSW or the ACT every weekend　of the season, and greater opportunities for people to become involved at a community level,” Harley said.

“Any sport is only as great as the people who commit so much time, so thank you to the fulltime staff and countless volunteers who play a part in growing our great game at all levels. I am extremely proud of the team we have developed at AFL NSW/ACT and have the utmost confidence that the game will continue to grow as a result of their commitment.”　

Upon retiring　as a champion player with Geelong in 2009, Harley worked as a project consultant for TEAM GWS before moving into the fulltime role of Planning Operations Manager of AFL NSW/ACT in 2010 and becoming General Manager in June 2011. He has also maintained a media role as part of Channel 7’s Friday Night Football and Saturday Afternoon commentary teams on weekends.

“I remain passionate about the growth of the game in NSW and the ACT and will look to offer my support in 2014　as　I　spend more time with my young family　and further my studies.”

Harley　will continue to work on selected projects for the AFL in Sydney and will retain his position on the Laws of the Game Committee.