MIKE Fitzpatrick has announced he is retiring from the AFL Commission, ending 10 years as the League's Chairman during an historic period of expansion.
Fitzpatrick, who has served 14 years on the Commission, will be replaced by Richard Goyder on April 4.
A three-time premiership ruckman with Carlton, Fitzpatrick's resignation was accepted by the Commission at a meeting in Sydney on February 9.
Goyder, who will retire as CEO of Wesfarmers this year, said Fitzpatrick had left an extraordinary legacy.
"Mike has cemented his place in the history of our game as a premiership captain, Carlton legend, and outstanding administrator," Goyder said.
"On behalf of the Commission, I wish Mike and Helen all the best for the next phase of their lives, and know that while he has retired from the Commission, he will never be far from the game.
"I take over as Chairman with the competition in a very strong position, and I look forward to delivering for our fans, clubs, players and the community to grow and protect the game that so many Australian’s love."
Fitzpatrick has led the AFL through the introduction of two new clubs, three media rights negotiations, the purchase of Etihad Stadium and creation of AFLW and AFL Media.
His achievements in the role include:
· The introduction of new clubs Greater Western Sydney and Gold Coast
· Construction and renovation of stadiums and club bases including Adelaide Oval, Perth Stadium, Metricon Stadium, MCG, SCG, the Gabba and Simonds Stadium
· Increased participation by more than 140 per cent from the start of the 2007 season to 2016
· The introduction of AFLW two years ahead of schedule, and a record 380,041 female participants in 2016
· Record TV broadcast deals, including the $2.5 billion TV broadcast rights deal secured in August 2015
· A record high club memberships of 875,197 in 2016
· The creation of AFL Media, which attracts an average 4.26mweekly unique visitorsin season
· The adoption of all recommendations of the AFL Indigenous Advisory Council and a commitment to appoint an indigenous commissioner by the end of 2018
· Development of the Respect and Responsibility policy
· Increase in resources and policies governing integrity and doping
Richard Goyder will take over as AFL Chairman in April. Picture: Getty Images
Fitzpatrick paid tribute to his fellow commissioners, CEO Gillon McLachlan and former chief Andrew Demetriou, as well as club bosses and the game's many volunteers.
He said the two highlights of his tenure had been the introduction of the Suns and GWS and the launch of the NAB AFL Women’s League.
"We have always said that our game is a game for all, but the launch of the AFL Women’s League ensures anyone growing up with the dream of playing AFL at the elite level can achieve that dream," Fitzpatrick said.
"I am honoured to be succeeded by Richard Goyder, who is an outstanding Commissioner and a leading figure in Australian business life."
McLachlan said Fitzpatrick, who will attend his last Commission meeting on March 16, had been a mentor and friend.
"Mike was at his best under pressure, and I will always appreciate his calmness and directness when things were challenging," McLachlan said.
"His great legacies are his love for the game, and his backing of the management team to make big decisions to change and ultimately grow our competition."
