SANFL adjusts lists rules for AFL clubs

From article:

By ZAC MILBANK

SANFL has finalised four key changes to its list rules for Adelaide and Port Adelaide ahead of the 2023 Hostplus League season.

Ratified by the South Australian Football Commission, the changes come after the annual review of the list rules and match conditions which govern the participation of SA’s two AFL clubs in the SANFL League competition.

In line with previously announced increases to SANFL’s salary cap for 2023, Adelaide and Port Adelaide will now be able to increase their base and match payments to SANFL-contracted players, including their nominated Marquee Player.

Their Marquee Player will also no longer need to be aged at least 26 while contract lengths have also been increased by 12 months to 24 months, or two seasons.

”We discuss and review the competition and rules and regulations on an annual basis, including those relating to the two AFL clubs,” SANFL Executive General Manager Football Matt Duldig said.

”As a League, it’s important to continue to balance what’s best for football and the development of players in South Australia, ensuring we remain the best State League competition in the nation.”

Adjustments have also been made to the SANFL Rookie Program, which was introduced last year.

In 2023, Adelaide and Port Adelaide can each select one 19 or 20-year-old player as part of the SANFL Rookie Program, with the player having the autonomy to opt into the program once the SANFL club has been consulted in the first instance.

Once a player decides to opt in, their SANFL club will be financially compensated.

AFL clubs must select their SANFL Rookie Program player in their SANFL League team each week, immediately after their AFL-listed players and Marquee Player.

Father-son and Next Generation Academy players can opt into the SANFL Rookie Program without approval from their SANFL club.