Essendon Football Club: Tim Roberts Appointed New CEO
The Essendon Football Club has officially appointed Tim Roberts as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), concluding a two-month search for the successor to Craig Vozzo. Roberts, who previously served as the club's vice president and a board member, will continue on the Bombers' board while relinquishing his vice presidency, a position he had held since September.
Roberts brings over 30 years of experience from the construction industry. The club highlighted his comprehensive understanding of Essendon, coupled with his business acumen, as key factors in his selection. He has been a club director since 2022, where he contributed significantly to the VFL program, the establishment of the AFLW team, and oversaw commercial operations, community programs, and football department strategy.
President Andrew Welsh noted Roberts' impact on the board and his suitability to strengthen club culture, provide continuity, and execute strategy.
Craig Vozzo will continue to assist the club in a list and recruitment consultant role, focusing on list management, recruiting, and salary cap. Roberts marks the fourth CEO for the Bombers in three years and is scheduled to commence his new role on Monday.
Melbourne Football Club: Midfield Impacted by Key Injuries
The Melbourne Football Club faces significant midfield changes following a key injury update. Player Jack Viney is scheduled to undergo surgery for an Achilles tendon injury on Tuesday, a procedure expected to sideline him for at least three months. This means he will miss most of the first half of the upcoming AFL season. The decision for surgery was made on Monday, after initial hopes from Melbourne fitness staff that it could be avoided.
Viney, 31, had been on a conservative rest and recovery plan for his Achilles and also managed a back injury, which limited his training over the summer. An attempt to increase his training load in January resulted in his Achilles flaring up again.
Viney's absence will necessitate considerable adjustments to the Demons' midfield lineup. Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver have been traded out, while former Saints captain Jack Steele has been acquired. Captain Max Gawn is anticipated to be the only remaining regular midfielder from the past decade's quartet for the opening round against St Kilda.
These player absences are expected to create opportunities for young talent, including draftees Harvey Langford, Caleb Windsor, and Xavier Lindsay. Kysaiah Pickett is also projected to play a role further up the field.
Additionally, Jake Bowey is recovering from lisfranc injury surgery in December and is expected to miss at least six months.
Fremantle Dockers: Key Players Re-signed, Focus on Captain Pearce
The Fremantle Dockers have successfully re-signed several crucial players, solidifying their list for the coming seasons. Reigning best-and-fairest Caleb Serong has extended his contract, demonstrating his long-term commitment to the club.
Other significant contract extensions include:
- Co-vice-captain Andrew Brayshaw (until 2031)
- Hayden Young (2033)
- Luke Jackson (2029)
- Murphy Reid (2029)
The club's immediate focus is now on securing captain Alex Pearce's signature, as he is set to be out of contract next season.
There is potential for interest from the Tasmania Devils, who will join the competition in 2028, at which point Pearce will be 32. Coach Justin Longmuir has led the Dockers to two finals appearances since 2020.