Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) hosted its Annual General Meeting (AGM) today in Melbourne.
Held at the PFA’s offices in Docklands, the AGM took place with all membership groups having strong representation, reflecting the high levels of engagement, interest and unity there is amongst the players as negotiations begin for new Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) for the Socceroos, Matildas and A-League.
Following a minute’s silence in recognition of Young Socceroo Dylan Tombides, the AGM was opened by PFA Vice President Ante Covic, who then handed proceedings over to Chief Executive Adam Vivian to provide a detailed Activity Report for the 2013/14 financial year.
Vivian’s report highlighted the PFA’s work in pursuing a workplace that ensures the health and safety of the players, its global network of experts and the growth of the organisation.
Following the ratification of the appointment of Kathryn Gill to the PFA Executive Committee, five nominees of the Executive were up for re-election with an announcement on the PFA’s leadership to be made tomorrow.
At the conclusion of the AGM’s general business the meeting switched gears for the special business agenda item and players witnessed expert presentations on health and safety, CBA priorities and player development and wellbeing.
Having been engaged by the players as experts in workplace health and safety FCB Group’s Senior Consultant, Paul Deakin, gave a detailed presentation on health and safety in the professional football workplace.
Special Counsel for the PFA Brendan Schwab gave an extensive presentation on the players’ priorities for the upcoming CBA negotiations. The FIFPro Vice President highlighted the players’ decision from the June 2013 Special General Meeting on the importance of establishing an agreement that not only delivers improved economic viability for the game and the clubs but an enhanced career path for players in terms of remuneration, opportunity, player education, development, wellbeing and transition programs.
Following the meeting PFA Chief Executive Adam Vivian paid tribute to the high level of engagement amongst the players and said it further demonstrates the collectivism amongst the group.
“Throughout proceedings the players consistently highlighted their commitment to pursuing a whole of game agreement that continues deliver for all of the games stakeholders,” Vivian said. “The players have a unique and in-depth understanding of the game as well as the challenges and opportunities that the sport faces. As always our members remain committed to working with all of the games stakeholders in pursuing the realisation of football’s enormous potential in this country.”
