EAST Wagga-Kooringal coach Gavin McMahon has questioned the need for a points system to be introduced in AFL Riverina next year.
Clubs in both the Riverina and Farrer League competitions will adhere to a new points system for the first time in 2016 as part of a roll-out across NSW and Victoria.
McMahon, who has coached the Hawks to consecutive Farrer League grand final appearances, has concerns about the ‘facts’ behind the decision to implement a points system.
The idea of the system is to stop the inflammatory nature of player payments and help promote equalisation across bush competitions.
McMahon is not convinced either is a problem in AFL Riverina.
“Where are the facts?,” McMahon said.
“I don’t have an issue with the concept but is it based on any facts? Is there an issue with payments?
“Equalisation for what? When you look at the spread of premierships for the last 20 years, what are we trying to equalise?
“I just don’t get it.
“At the end of the day a survey was done of Victorian clubs, which is a completely different demographic.
“It seems as though we’re jumping at shadows.”
McMahon, who admits he is at the coalface of recruiting, said there was often a lot of rumours – not facts – about player payments.
“I’ve heard East Wagga spent $200,000 on players, which is ridiculous, and there is continual banter about a money tree but by no means are we the biggest spenders in the comp,” he said.
“We’ve had no one come to our club for more money than they were originally on at their existing club.
“The reason why money continually gets blamed for things is that no one says they are leaving because their new club does the right things and is a better environment to be around. They say it’s because they’re paying more money.
“It’s a lot easier to say that and avoid an awkward conversation.
“It continually gets blown out of proportion. At the end of the day, everyone has jobs and you play footy where you want to.”
McMahon believes the points system could do more harm than good.
“I’ve got no issue with change but this is based on what facts and what benefits for Riverina footy?,” he said.
McMahon also pointed out that the system penalises clubs for bringing quality players into the region.
