Joel Bowden resigns from AFLNT

Joel Bowden headshot

AFL Northern Territory (AFLNT) Chief Executive Officer Michael Solomon today announced Joel Bowden, Manager of Football Operations had resigned from the organisation after three years of dedicated service.  

Solomon said AFLNT was saddened to lose Bowden, who will finish in his role next week before embarking on a new challenge in the NT. 
“Football in the Northern Territory has grown under Joel’s leadership to establish itself as the number one sport of choice,” Solomon said. 

“Joel has been a key component of the NTFL, CAFL, the NT Thunder Football Club and the entire football operations in the Northern Territory, including remote and regional leagues. 

“He has overseen all areas of football operations, including establishing a revamped and independent match review panel and tribunal system, implementing more professional and scientifically based programs for NT Thunder players and most recently undertook a full NTFL review which positions us well for future success,” he said. 

Bowden’s football career is well documented, before joining AFLNT as the Community Football – Stakeholder Engagement Manager in November 2014 he was the AFL’s Game Analysis Manager.

He also held concurrent positions as a member of the AFL Laws of the Game Committee and the AFL Match Review Panel.

Bowden was a past president of the AFL Players’ Association and played 265 games for the Richmond Football Club from 1996 – 2009 and was duly recognised for his outstanding playing record by being inducted into the AFLNT Team of the Century in 2016.

Bowden said he had enjoyed his time at AFLNT and greatly appreciated the support of many people including clubs, players, coaches, administrators, volunteers, fans and AFLNT staff, which had all contributed to the significant progression of football in the Territory. 

“I am very proud of the football operations team and the work we achieved. It’s never an easy job to be charged as a custodian of a game that so many people love and care deeply about. It was a pleasure to look after football across the NT and implement changes for the betterment of the game.

“Without a doubt, the highlight of my tenure was being part of the 2015 NEAFL Premiership NT Thunder won. I wish the Club, organisation and wider football community all the best in their future endeavours,” Bowden said. 

AFLNT Executive will be in a position to announce next steps to replace the role of Manager of Football Operations in due course.