‘Good time to depart’: Big AFL shake-up continues as key figure quits days after poachings

Another major change at AFL headquarters has been revealed, with football operations performance boss Josh Mahoney stepping away after two years in his role.

CODE Sports reported on Monday morning that Mahoney, 47, had left his post.

Mahoney’s departure follows several key appointments at AFL House, including Brisbane CEO Greg Swann becoming the league’s executive GM of football performance, taking part of Laura Kane’s football operations role.

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The AFL last week also confirmed the poaching of Swans chief executive Tom Harley to become the chief operating officer.

After football boss stints at both Melbourne and Essendon, Mahoney joined the AFL two years ago. In February this year, he moved from general manager of football operations into the head of football performance.

AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon said his team had been in discussions with Mahoney about the future direction of the football department in recent weeks, leading to Mahoney’s exit.

Laura Kane, Geoff Walsh and Josh Mahoney. Picture: Michael Klein Source: News Corp Australia

“With two new executive roles now in place to oversee football, Josh felt now was a good time to depart,” Dillon said.

“His departure will allow his team to focus on the continued execution of both seasons and provide a clear runway for Greg Swann to lead the football performance team when he begins on 21 July.”

Dillon said Mahoney had played a key role in several AFL initiatives and focuses during his two seasons with the league.

“During his time at the AFL, Josh has played a pivotal role in leading key areas of the football department including umpiring, talent and competition operations and his leadership and work on the competitive balance review was vital as we delivered this important piece of work to our clubs,” Dillon said.

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“Josh also played a key role in leading football innovation projects including ball tracking technology.

“I want to sincerely thank Josh for his leadership, expertise and contribution during his time at the AFL and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career.

“He has had a long career within the AFL and I hope he continues to contribute to the game in some way into the future.”

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