Under a series of recommendations to be put to the League's executive, the AFL may look to work closer with the private school system and elite underage competitions around the country to better manage the workload of draft prospects.
A study undertaken in 2009 – and used as part of the AFL's talent review this year – showed 82 per cent of first-year players had suffered an injury during their draft year. Groin injuries were the most common, with high workloads listed as the most prevalent cause.
The study also showed that almost 35 per cent of the draft pool play more than 21 games during their under-18 season, and that more than half participate in extra training away from formal club sessions.
The close monitoring of a player's season structure is part of the AFL's broader aim to implement individual development plans for all of the national and state academy players.
The idea would see the draftee follow an elite style football program, which would integrate feedback from AFL clubs for areas of improvement, and identify opportunities for Victorian players to experience senior VFL football as part of their development.
It might also look to restrict the amount of senior games a draft hopeful can play in the WAFL and SANFL competitions.
An online system, which can follow each player's fitness, conditioning, wellness and game vision for coaching purposes, may also be sought to provide a structured plan for more players likely to progress to the top level.
AFL football operations manager Mark Evans and special projects manager Tristan Salter have been reviewing the League's talent pathways in recent months, and in May held a day-long forum between clubs and state bodies at Etihad Stadium.
A subcommittee made up of AFL and club representatives have met several times in recent weeks, helping form the recommendations to be put to the executive and which Salter explained to clubs at the Gold Coast on Tuesday.
It is the first step in a longer process, with the possibility of implementation some time down the track.
In working with the private schools, the AFL may also develop an AFL Schools Accreditation, which would reward 'good practice' that is aligned with the League's '2020 Talent Strategy'.
With the Australian Institute of Sport no longer involved with the AFL, the NAB AFL National Academy program continues to be discussed.
While details of this year's squad size, camp program and the possibility of an international tour are still to be confirmed, there has been strong support for a talent scout or group of experts to be appointed to follow players from under-15 level and act as selectors for the Academy squads.
Players within the Academy are likely to spend more time at AFL clubs as part of their program – up to three stints at different clubs – with a focus on sharing resources.
Employing a welfare and development manager to work with the Academy has also been discussed.
