MEDIA RELEASE - AFL Barwon Commission appoint new Chair

The AFL Barwon Commission wishes to advise that Michelle Gerdtz has been appointed as the new AFL Barwon Chair.

Having held the position of deputy chair for the last four years, Michelle was unanimously sworn in at last night’s scheduled meeting. Commissioner Ashley West was appointed as the Deputy Chair.

Michelle has extensive experience in the sporting industry, holding key roles at Netball Victoria for six years including the role of General Manager, High Performance and Commercial. She was also part of the leadership team for the Australian Masters Games and was recently appointed as the General Manager of Read the Play, AFL Barwon’s Community Partner.

Having been involved in the AFL Barwon Region as both a Netball player and committee member at Bell Park Sport & Recreation Club, Michelle was appointed as the first ever female President of a Geelong Football Netball League club when she was appointed to the role as Football President in 2012.

Gerdtz was quoted “I am honoured to take on the leadership role in one of the richest football and netball regions in Victoria. “

“I would personally like to thank Craig Keating for his guidance, support, and encouragement in taking on this position.”

‘I’m looking forward to working closely with the member clubs, commission, staff and stakeholders with the view to continue to progress the region. It’s an exciting time right now for AFL Barwon with the development of our strategic direction for the next three to five years.”

The role had previously been held by Craig Keating whose tenure was completed at the recent Annual General Meeting. The AFL Barwon Commission and staff thank Craig for his leadership, dedication, and commitment over his 10 years of service to the AFL Barwon region and its members.

Further changes to the AFL Barwon Commission for 2023 saw Lachie Young appointed for a three-year term at the November 30 AFL Barwon Annual General Meeting.

The profiles of the AFL Barwon Commissioners can be found here.