AFL Barwon’s Head of Football Michael Limb to stand down at season’s end

Another member of AFL Barwon’s top brass will depart this season, closing the door on a 23-year career dedicated to local footy.

Ed Wilson, with Cr Anthony Aitken, stepped down as AFL Barwon region manager in March. Picture: Alan Barber

A third member of AFL Barwon’s top brass will depart Geelong’s footy peak body this year.

Head of Football Michael Limb will step down from his role at the end of the season, closing the door on a 23-year career dedicated to football in the region.

It follows the resignation of former regional general manager Ed Wilson just before the season opener and the departure of under-18 and senior football coordinator Simon Riddoch earlier this month.

In a parting email on May 1, Riddoch said he was going to take “some time away to freshen up and seek further employment”.

“Working at AFL Barwon for the last three years has been a pleasure,” Riddoch said.

Meanwhile, Limb had held the positions of junior and senior football manager, Head of Operations and then later Head of Football.

AFL Barwon manager Simon Riddoch left his position in early May. Picture: AFL Barwon.

In a statement on Saturday, Limb said the “journey had been extremely rewarding”, starting in 2003 as a junior football manager three days a week.

“I had no idea that 23 years later I would still be in the organisation,” Limb said.

“This journey has been extremely rewarding, to be a part of the incredible growth of football and netball in our region.

“Clearly it is a work environment that I enjoy, having remained for so long. I feel blessed to have met so many amazing and selfless people throughout my tenure.

“Whilst we have not always agreed or shared the same opinions, we all have a common desire to provide the best possible outcomes for our participants and stakeholders.

“I will truly value the friendships I have made and have the utmost respect for the individual contributions made by so many wonderful volunteers.

AFL Barwon's Head of Football Michael Limb will step down at the end of the 2025 football season. Picture: AFL Barwon.

“I look forward to sharing a beer and a laugh somewhere at the local footy in the years to come.”

In a statement on its website, AFL Barwon said Limb began his journey with the organisation when it was known as Football Geelong and had played a “pivotal role in shaping the game locally”.

It said Limb contribution to the growth and governance of community footy had been “immense”.

“His guidance and football intellect have underpinned a period of substantial development, ensuring clubs and competitions have continued to thrive,” the peak body said.

“Michael has been a guiding figure for clubs, players, coaches, and volunteers across all levels of community football.

“His deep understanding of the game and its governance needs, coupled with his ability to influence, has supported the region through significant growth, challenges, and transformation.

“From managing competitions and player registrations, to overseeing disciplinary matters and implementing governance reforms, Michael’s fingerprints are on nearly every operational aspect of the game in the Barwon region.

Lisa Patterson was unveiled as AFL Barwon's new region manager. Picture: AFL Barwon

“His work behind the scenes has ensured that thousands of participants have had the opportunity to enjoy safe, well-run, and inclusive competitions year after year.”

Limb oversaw the league’s match review panel and tribunal processes, player points and allowable player payments framework.

“His commitment to fairness, integrity, and supporting clubs has helped create a robust football framework that will continue to benefit the region long after his departure,” the peak body said.

In a further statement, AFL Barwon’s new region general manager, Lisa Patterson, said Limb had been a “cornerstone of football administration” for more than two decades.

“His wealth of knowledge, calm and considered approach, and genuine care for our clubs and people have been invaluable,” Patterson said.

“He has worked with humility, and his behind-the-scenes efforts have underpinned the integrity of our competitions.

“While we are sad to see him go, we are incredibly grateful for the legacy he leaves behind.”

Originally published as AFL Barwon’s Head of Football Michael Limb to stand down at season’s end