AFL Victoria names Greg Madigan as its new boss

AFL Victoria has introduced the new man to lead the game forward as it reveals what he will bring to the role and why he is excited to jump on board.

AFL Victoria has its new boss.

Former Hawthorn and Fremantle player Greg Madigan has been named as the new head of football for the state’s governing body.

Madigan was part of Hawthorn’s 1989 premiership side before spending three years at Fremantle after the Dockers entered the AFL.

In a statement, the AFL said he would bring “extensive commercial leadership experience” to his new role.

He replaces Ben Kavenagh who recently left the top job.

Madigan said he’s excited about the opportunity and challenge ahead.

Newly appointed Head of AFL Victoria, Greg Madigan

“This is an extremely exciting opportunity to have a positive impact on grassroots football, which is the foundation of the game and a huge part of Victorian communities,” he said.

“I am looking forward to working with the AFL Victoria team and stakeholders across community football, including clubs, leagues and associations, to ensure the game is getting the support it needs to thrive well into the future.”

The AFL’s executive general manager of game development Rob Auld welcomed Madigan into the role.

Greg Madigan during his time with Fremantle. Picture: Sporting Pix. HWT USE ONLY.

“I congratulate Greg on his appointment and look forward to working closely with him as he takes on the important role as Head of AFL Victoria, as part of the national Game Development leadership team,” he said.

“In his career to date, Greg has consistently demonstrated strengths in managing teams, including large and regionally located structures, advanced commercial acumen and business unit management.

“While Australian football in Victoria has rebounded strongly from a period of significant disruption through the pandemic years, with participation levels in 2023 eclipsing previous record levels from 2019, there are tremendous opportunities for the game to grow and prosper.

“We know there are areas of the game doing it tough and the AFL is committed to directing support for community football to where it’s needed most.

“Greg brings experience in managing stakeholders and growing businesses that puts him in a great position to work with the community football network and deliver on our strategic objective to have footy in every home.”

Madigan will officially start on November 13.