Collingwood president Jeff Browne has launched an impassioned defence of the AFL father-son system, declaring it would be a “knee-jerk reaction” to alter the rules “because a couple of players have turned out to be exceptional footballers”.
The scheme that helped the Magpies secure 2023 premiership captain Darcy Moore, Brownlow contender Nick Daicos and brother Josh has come under fire in recent days as part of a wider draft overhaul.
Browne’s St Kilda counterpart Andrew Bassat declared he would scrap the father-son rule rather than the alternative of trying to force clubs to pay higher prices for star offspring.
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In contrast to Collingwood’s collection of sons in recent memory, the Saints have had just three sons roll through their club.
While luck of the gender draw at birth would appear to play a significant part in the history of the father-son rule, Browne believes it has also rewarded clubs like his and Essendon that “get it right”.
Bombers great Tim Watson’s son Jobe went on to captain the club while Dustin Fletcher, Darcy and Joe Daniher, and more recently Alwyn and Jayden Davey have all followed in their fathers’ footsteps.
“I mention these names to make the point that the father-son rule is integral to the history and tradition of our great game,” Browne said in his address before Collingwood’s clash with Essendon on Friday night.
“Last year our club had the privilege of seeing Peter Moore present the premiership cup to his son Darcy.
“It was one of the great romantic moments in football and a huge thrill for all Collingwood members and fans. Moments like these are important — significant not just for our supporters, but for the game which means so much to so many.
“To those suggesting that we should alter the father-son rule because a couple of players have turned out to be exceptional footballers is a knee-jerk reaction to a rule that has served our game and its community so well over time.”
Browne went on to argue “we don’t get them all”, pointing to Jake Kelly — son of current Pies CEO Craig — playing at Adelaide and now Essendon after being passed over by Collingwood in his draft year.
“The current bidding system for father-son players is right and should not be tampered with,” Browne said.
“Collingwood and Essendon are examples of how you get it right.
“Create the right structures and get the best people. Build a winning culture by creating mutual trust and confidence throughout your club. Honour and celebrate the history and heroes of the past.
“I sincerely hope that common sense will prevail both at head office and amongst some of the noisier clubs and that we retain the father-son rule in its current form.”