The players' association has raised concerns that footballers will face heightened scrutiny if an AFL plan to provide in-game player GPS tracking data to broadcasters comes to fruition.
There has been a push from headquarters for GPS data to be gathered by the AFL via statistical partner Champion Data under an arrangement in which all 18 clubs would share information relating to each other's players, and broadcasters would gain access to the information to enhance coverage.
The multifaceted issue has led to talks between the AFL, clubs and the AFLPA.
While broadly open to the concept, the prospect of media gaining unrestricted access to data has raised concerns for the AFLPA, which fears already heavily scrutinised players will face further public criticism if broadcasters are able to show players' running data. The union is also worried that the reputation of certain players could take a hit within the industry if other clubs know about their running weaknesses.
The players' association says it understands the AFL's desire to make broadcasts more interesting, but is reluctant to allow the practice if it comes at a cost to players. The union has suggested it wants to work with the league on the issue and for players to be a partner in the game, the same line it has consistently toed during its protracted collective bargaining agreement negotiations with the AFL.
One compromise proposed is for data on the top-running players only to be made available to media, meaning elite performers would be praised rather than strugglers scrutinised. The AFLPA said it was using its ongoing visits to clubs to gauge the views of players on the matter. The union is of the view that the AFL cannot legally share players' data unless it has their permission.
The inter-club information-sharing proposal has drawn a mixed response from clubs.
While some are unperturbed by the idea – believing many of the conclusions drawn from use of the technology can be made with the naked eye – others have had issues with the scheme, believing they could lose a tactical advantage if forced to share their knowledge.Â
It's understood some of the most vocal protestations came from reigning premiers the Western Bulldogs, although it's believed recent talks between the Bulldogs and the AFL have been positive.
There is significant support from clubs and the AFLPA for "deidentified" information to be shared between clubs.
That would allow all clubs to gain better insights about running patterns across the industry without it becoming costly to specific players or clubs.
The AFL was reluctant to publicly delve  into the matter on Thursday. "We work with all clubs to work out how we can provide a better match-viewing experience for fans with use of data," an AFL spokesman said.
In addition to the matter of the data sharing, several clubs have also baulked at a recent package offered by Champion Data at a price of about $30,000.
Clubs were approached about the new program after  many had already done their football department budgeting for 2017. This is not the first time AFL GPS contracts have become a contentious issue.Â
The AFL met with disapproval from clubs in 2015 when it decided to give GPS contracts to Champion Data – in which the league owns a 49per cent stake – from 2017 despite apparent satisfaction with then provider Catapult Sports.
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