Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
David Matthews has drawn criticism after questioning Tasmania as a destination for Australian Football League players while preparing to leave the Greater Western Sydney Giants. The comments have attracted more attention because David Matthews will soon advise the league on projects that could include a 20th team.
“I don’t think it’s a super attractive proposition to go and play at Tasmania,” David Matthews told 3AW. The remarks came amid reports that the Tasmania Devils are targeting Greater Western Sydney Giants midfielder Tom Green.
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Tasmania Devils chief executive Brendon Gale called the comments a “bit rich”, noting that David Matthews had never lived in Tasmania. Tasmania Devils coach Ken Hinkley also questioned whether David Matthews understood the lifestyle available in the state.
David Matthews will step down after 15 years as chief executive of the Greater Western Sydney Giants at the end of the season. His new part-time role will involve advising Australian Football League chief executive Andrew Dillon on the collective bargaining agreement, international planning and possible conditions for a 20th licence.
Former St Kilda player Nick Riewoldt questioned the contrast between the two positions. “So he’s working on the 20th licence for the AFL while putting down the prospects of playing for the 19th licence,” Nick Riewoldt said.
Craig Hutchison described the beginning of the consultancy as underwhelming, while Caroline Wilson said the remarks had raised eyebrows at league headquarters. Tasmania was officially awarded the Australian Football League’s 19th licence.