Game day activities planned for Round 14 have been altered as a mark of respect following the death of Adelaide coach Phil Walsh.
Several pre and post-game activities planned for Fremantle’s match against Brisbane at Domain Stadium on Sunday have been cancelled following Friday’s tragedy.
Planned Christmas in July celebrations have been postponed to a later date, and a moment’s silence will be held before the bounce out of respect to Walsh.
There will be no 60-seconds to bounce countdown, playing of ‘TNT’, guard of honour for the players, team banner and pre or post-match fireworks at Sunday’s game.
Should Fremantle win, there will be no team song after the game.
The Virgin Australia Grand Final Giveaway has also been postponed to a later date and the planned post-match kick-to-kick has also been cancelled.
Match Day Information: Fremantle v Brisbane
These changes have been endorsed by the AFL and chief executive Gillon McLachlan, who said the football community was mourning the loss of Walsh, who was involved with seven clubs during his playing and coaching career.
“The sorrow and distress felt today touches many in our industry because Phil Walsh gave such a lot to our game,” he said.
“We know that the usual fun and passion of our game will not be there, but we also know that our clubs, members and supporters will gather in a spirit of respectful mourning, and in support for the family and friends of a great football man, who is loved by so many.”
McLachlan said he had spoken with industry stakeholders, briefed chief executives, presidents and the AFL Commission.
“We have decided that the game on Sunday between Geelong and Adelaide will not go ahead,” he said.
“This is a decision of the competition, as a mark of respect to Phil Walsh.
“This decision has the support of the clubs and the Players Association.”
Fremantle chief executive Steve Rosich said the club understood and supported the revised game-day events across the country.
“We know our members and supporters will understand that these tragic circumstances are unprecedented,” he said.
“The AFL has shown strong and timely leadership on this matter in difficult circumstances.”
Rosich said Walsh was a widely respected football professional and person.
“Our sincerest thoughts remain with the family and friends of Phil Walsh and the Adelaide Football Club during this distressing time,” he said.
