Dialogue a big plus from new AFLW deal

MEG McDonald has hailed the more open communication between players and the AFL as one of the successes of drawn-out AFLW negotiations.

The Cats’ All-Australian said the back and forth between players, the AFLPA and the league over a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) last year set a foundation for further improvements.

A CBA offer from the league was knocked back by the playing group before 98 per cent of players agreed to a revised three-year version that will see the fixture grow by two matches in 2021 and 2022 and an independent review of the AFLW undertaken.

McDonald, 28, was part of the 30 per cent of players who rejected the original CBA offer.

She said the negotiations had helped present concerns from players to the league.

“We’re into our fourth year (of the AFLW) and I think the players that have been there throughout are aware of the realities of trying to play AFLW,” she told ABC News Breakfast.

“I think we feel we are in a stronger position to be able to communicate that and let the league and the AFLPA know what we need to succeed.

“I think that’s been a huge success of the past couple of months and we’ve got a threeyear CBA now and are looking forward to improving the next one already, so that’s been a really positive change.

“The playing group and the AFLPA and the AFL all want a successful, sustainable competition.

“I think it’s really great that the players had the opportunity to have their voices heard and I think that will continue into the future.”

Geelong’s inaugural bestand-fairest winner last year, McDonald will miss the first month of the season after breaking the little finger on her right hand.

“It’s only a pinky (finger) and it seems like a little injury that is costing me a few weeks but there are plenty of other girls who have suffered worse injuries so I’m feeling positive about it,” she said.

“I trust the girls will get it done until I get back.”