'I feel confident': AFL ramps up radical ball chip technology
The AFL is ramping up its ball chip experiment with a view to implementing the state of the art technology as early as the upcoming VFL season.
Sherrins with a chip planted in them will eventually be used by the league, broadcasters and clubs to measure an array of stats and data.
The hope is these numbers will be available in real time.
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It's also hoped a chip will help with officiating games and determining when the ball goes out, through the goals and hits the post.
As recently as last week AFL CEO Andrew Dillon trialled the technology himself at Marvel Stadium, which follows specifically designed Sherrins being used at club level across the summer.
The AFL is ramping up its ball chip experiment. AFL Photos via Getty Images
"He (Dillon) thinks the distance metric isn't up to it because he was let down by the length of his kick," league GM of football Laura Kane joked on Tuesday afternoon.
"But I feel confident in the technology."
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Kane continued: "We have a trial process to go through with ball tracking technology. We are feeling really good about it. It's clearly a big decision to introduce it into competition so the important question is 'for what purpose?'
"There is data football performance information we can gather but there is also an officiating overlay. It's just about determining which one we want to go with first and that will determine the timelines."
Laura Kane. AFL Photos via Getty Images
It's understood the ball chip technology could also be used in the next AFLW season as the league invests in the project.
Meanwhile, AFL coach engagement manager Dan Richardson is embarking on a nation-wide trip to meet with clubs on the delicate issue of welfare for coaches.
The issue is a "priority" for the AFL, Kane confirmed, with the AFL Coaches' Association also involved in discussions.
It's understood Kane herself and Josh Mahoney will join Richardson in chatting to clubs around their concerns.
The toll of the job is broadly what the league is seeking to understand more, plus how the coaching pathway can be improved to keep the best football minds in the game.
"We want all our employees to thrive," Kane said.
"We want them to be happy, healthy and love our game like so many do. And we will continue to make that a priority."
