Adelaide midfielder Rory Sloane has joined the AFL Players’ Association board ahead of the 2016 season.

Sloane, 25, was elected at the AFLPA Annual General Meeting to replace departing board member, former Hawthorn player Brad Sewell. He said he was excited to join the board in a year in which the AFLPA will enter negotiations around the next Collective Bargaining Agreement.

“It’s a real honour to be joining such highly-respected leaders of our game on the AFL Players’ Board, especially at such a crucial time as we enter into CBA negotiations,” Sloane said.

“I’VE DEVELOPED A VERY STRONG INTEREST IN PLAYERS’ RIGHTS AND WHAT CAN BE DONE TO ACHIEVE THE BEST POSSIBLE OUTCOMES FOR PLAYERS.” – RORY SLOANE

“I’ve developed a very strong interest in players’ rights and what can be done to achieve the best possible outcomes for players so I’m looking forward to providing some strong representation and direction from South Australia.”

AFL Players’ Association CEO Paul Marsh said Sloane, who has spent the past two seasons in the Crows leadership group, would bring a fresh perspective to the AFLPA board table.

“Rory is a terrific addition to the Board with his inclusion providing an important and respected voice in South Australia,” Marsh said. “He’s a very popular member of the playing group and I’m confident that he will bring great value to the Board and the Players’ Association.”

Sloane’s appointment was confirmed at the AFL Players’ Association’s 2016 Season Launch on Tuesday night, after Sewell stepped down at the Annual General Meeting.

Marsh thanked Sewell for his commitment to the AFL Players’ board over the past five years.

“Brad should be commended on his efforts in advocating for better support and conditions for all players since 2011. The positive outcomes achieved during his tenure are a testament to his passion, intelligence and influence,” he said.

Having spent five years on the Board, Sewell now plans to focus on his new venture, The Australian Rules Football College, and his new role as Strategic Partnerships Manager at the AFL Players’ official charity partner Ladder, an organisation helping tackle youth homelessness.

The AFL Players’ Association Board

• Matthew Pavlich (President)
• Will Minson (Vice-President)
• Jimmy Bartel
• Patrick Dangerfield
• Drew Petrie
• Chris Dawes
• Leigh Montagna
• Ted Richards
• Rory Sloane
• Murray Browne (past player)