Patrick Dangerfield Resigns Top AFL Role After Controversial Move Sparks Fan Outrage

Geelong Legend Patrick Dangerfield Steps Down as AFL Players Association President
By Shayne Bugden for Daily Mail Australia

Geelong Cats captain Patrick Dangerfield is set to resign as president of the AFL Players Association (AFLPA) after seven years in the role. The 34-year-old, who has played 338 games for Geelong and the Adelaide Crows, will officially step down Tuesday following a tenure marked by advocacy for player benefits, navigating the COVID-19 crisis, and a polarizing push to shorten AFL match lengths.

Controversial Calls and Key Achievements
Dangerfield, elected in 2018, drew sharp criticism earlier this year for urging the AFL to shorten quarters, arguing it would align with shrinking viewer attention spans and boost revenue. “Reduce the supply [of game time], and demand goes up. Sponsors and salaries follow,” he tweeted, referencing the NBA’s similar debates. While fans bristled at the idea, Dangerfield stood by his stance, calling it a “simple” fix for modern audiences.

His presidency also saw him champion player rights during the pandemic, including supporting reduced 16-minute quarters and condensed seasons to keep the 2020 competition alive. More recently, he backed the AFL’s $2.2 billion pay deal and a mid-season trade period, emphasizing flexibility for teams and players.

[Insert Image 1: Dangerfield at a press conference, captioned “Dangerfield championed player权益 during the pandemic and pay negotiations.”]

Focus Returns to Geelong’s Premiership Quest
With his AFLPA exit confirmed, Dangerfield will turn his attention to leading Geelong to an 11th premiership. The Cats narrowly missed the 2024 Grand Final after a preliminary final loss to Brisbane. Last week, he kicked two goals in a dominant season-opening win over Fremantle, proving his on-field focus remains sharp.

[Insert Image 2: Dangerfield in action against Fremantle, captioned “The veteran starred in Geelong’s Round 1 victory.”]

A Legacy of Leadership
Dangerfield’s tenure wasn’t without controversy, but peers credit him with strengthening the players’ voice. AFLPA CEO Paul Marsh praised his “unwavering commitment,” especially during COVID’s upheaval. As Dangerfield departs, speculation swirls about his post-football career, but for now, the eight-time All-Australian is determined to add another flag to Geelong’s storied history.

[Insert Image 3: Dangerfield with his family, captioned “The Cats captain balances football with family life as he eyes premiership glory.”]

Published: 05:12 GMT, 18 March 2025 | Updated: 05:12 GMT, 18 March 2025

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