Paul Marsh is quitting the AFL Players Association and heading back to cricket

After more than a decade of tussling with the AFL over player rights Paul Marsh, the head of the AFL Players Association, is stepping down and heading back to cricket as CEO of the Australian Cricketers Association.

Marsh, the son of Australian cricket legend Rod, said he made the decision with a “heavy heart” having steered the player’s union through multiple challenges including the Covid-19 pandemic.

Most recently he helped land the historic joint CBA in 2023 which delivered AFL and AFLW players a 37.1 per cent share of industry revenue, and more than $55 million to support past players.

“I’m proud to have served the AFLPA and its members for nearly 11 years, and it’s a role I’ve absolutely loved. It has been incredibly challenging but also rewarding and I trust I leave with the AFLPA in a better place than when I started.

“I make this decision with a heavy heart. What we do is primarily about people and I’ve been so fortunate to have worked with an incredible group of staff, Board members, delegates, and members. I’ve made lifelong friends and hopefully have been able to positively impact some people’s lives along the way.

“I am excited about the opportunities and challenges that are ahead at the Australian Cricketers’ Association and am looking forward to getting started in June.

“I want to extend a huge thank you to the AFLPA Board who are an outstanding group of people that do an amazing job representing our members, as well as our staff who are passionate and driven player advocates.”

Marsh, who will finish up with the AFLPA at the end of May 2025. was lauded by newly minted AFLPA President, and Collingwood captain Darcy Moore, for his lasting impact on the pay and conditions players enjoy now and into the future.

 

“Marshy has been a true player advocate and all current and past players have been extremely fortunate to have had him in our corner for as long as we have,” he said.

 

“What he has achieved for players in his 11 years at the helm can’t be understated. The game is in as good a shape as it has ever been and the playing group have never been in as strong a position.

 

“On a personal note, I’d like to thank Marshy for his guidance, advice, and support of me in the role as Board member and incoming president.

 

“We’ll miss him greatly but are looking forward to seeing what he can achieve for Australian cricketers and cricket more broadly.”