Geelong Football Umpires League chair David Chaston has nominated for one of the vacant spots on the new-look AFL Barwon board ahead of the governing body’s Annual General Meeting later this month.
One of the region’s most experienced whistleblowers, Chaston has led the GFUL since 2021.
He is one of two nominees, with former Colac president and football director Nick Lang also putting his hand up.
“David’s football journey spans roles as a field umpire, junior development coach, and, since 2021, Chairman of the Geelong Football Umpires League,” Chaston’s biography stated.
“These experiences have provided him with deep insight into club operations, player development pathways, and the importance of fostering inclusive, safe, and well-governed football environments.”
Lang played a key role in securing funding for the $2.5 million redevelopment of Central Reserve.
“He combines deep governance expertise, financial oversight, and risk management with a lifelong commitment to community football and netball in the Barwon region,” Lang’s biography disclosed.
Former Commission chair Michelle Gerdtz and Nicola Wojcik will depart after reaching their tenure, while former Geelong West Giants chair Sarah Naylor will vacate her position after taking on the role of AFL Barwon’s football operations manager.
Newly-appointed GFNL president Todd Devine and his Bellarine counterpart Michael Fitzgerlad will automatically join the board as part of a change to the AFL Barwon constitution, in a move that is hoped to strengthen the relationship between headquarters and its member leagues.
Also on the agenda at the February 25 meeting is a proposed new name.
The reference to the AFL will be removed. However, ‘Barwon’ is likely to be retained.
X: @krockfootball
