Website plays matchmaker for retiring players

With around 130 players retiring from senior AFL rank each year, there’s a ready-made pool of talent that can enhance lower-tier competitions across the country.

When players do find their way to these teams, it’s often in an ad-hoc manner via word of mouth.

But now a new web-based service has been created to help match prospective players – including ex-AFL players, with suburban and country footy clubs.

The site, FootyRecruits.com, allows players to post their credentials including photos and videos and even an employment history for clubs to view.

Registration is free for players, with the website offering a real shot at helping them find offers once their career is over.

General Manager Player Development Steve Alessio said the site was a great opportunity for players to receive offers from clubs when their AFL career is over.

“Many players who have competed at the top level still wish to play when their AFL career comes to a close,” says Alessio.

“Lots will play at a local level and this kind of website provides them with an opportunity to place themselves on the market and gage interest from clubs looking for players of their calibre.

Alessio said some clubs could also throw in accommodation and employment opportunities as part of the deal.

“We encourage any service which helps provide opportunities for our members and have thrown our support behind this site.”

Site creator Kevin Hughes came up with the idea after spending many years as the coach of Heywood, a remote town in Victoria, and continually facing the battle to attract high quality players to the distant town.

"I had some connections down in Melbourne, but it was just so hard to find players willing to travel to Heywood," he said.

“That was in the '90s and nothing has changed. Everyone in this (Western Border) league is finding it hard to attract players.

"And it's not just this league. It's everywhere."

For more information log on to footyrecruits.com or email them at comparos@gmail.com