In the world of Australian Football League (AFL), significant discussions are unfolding around the rookie draft system, particularly following recent actions by Collingwood. Kane Cornes, a notable figure in the sport and a former Port Adelaide player, has voiced strong criticism of the current rules after Collingwood’s announcement regarding the delisting of two players, Oleg Markov and Ash Johnson. The club plans to re-sign them in the rookie draft, a maneuver Cornes deems as exploiting a flawed system.
Cornes didn’t hold back in his critique, labeling the rookie list regulations a “disgrace” and a “farce.” He expressed concern that the practice of retaining senior players through the rookie draft undermines the spirit of the list, which should primarily serve younger or less experienced players. “It’s troubling that a player like Oleg Markov, who is 28 and has already been at multiple clubs, can be re-rookied,” Cornes stated on SEN radio. His frustration has been echoed over the years, as he emphasizes that such practices compromise the integrity of the rookie draft.
Markov and Johnson, both of whom were part of Collingwood’s successful 2023 premiership team, exemplify the oddity of the situation. Markov joined the club as a rookie during the Supplementary Selection Period in 2023, while Johnson was recruited through the mid-season draft in 2021. This juxtaposition raises questions about the intent behind the rookie list and whether it truly serves its purpose of developing new talent.
Collingwood’s decision to let go of these players, only to potentially re-sign them in the rookie draft, has not only drawn ire from commentators like Cornes but also highlights a trend among various clubs exploiting the same loophole. “This isn’t just about Collingwood; many clubs can and will take advantage of these rookie rules, and it’s imperative that this changes,” Cornes remarked, indicating a broader issue within the league.
In other developments, Collingwood has also confirmed one-year contracts for four players, including Charlie Dean and Reef McInnes, reflecting their ongoing commitment to build a strong roster. However, the focus remains on the rookie draft system and whether the AFL will take decisive action to reform it, ensuring it genuinely benefits emerging talent rather than seasoned players seeking a second chance.