Prominent AFL player agency Connors Sports Management will need to pay a $7,500 fine after being found to have breached the AFLPA's governing accredited agents regulations.
The breach comes after the Agent Accreditation Board found that Connors Sports Management had "been in contact with a Talent Pathway player prior to date of approach eligibility and followed them on social media" in October last year.
A $5,000 penalty has been handed to the agency, while a previously suspended $2,500 fine for a past breach from 2023 will now be paid, given the most recent breach occurred in the 24-month period from the incident from two years ago.
"The process for approaching prospective players is clearly outlined in the Regulations. This process not only provides players and their families with the ability to manage how they are communicated with by agents but also aims to ensure a fair and equal process for all agents when contacting prospective clients," an AFLPA statement read.
"The AAB found that, in October 2024, CSM had been in contact with a Talent Pathway player prior to date of approach eligibility and followed them on social media. Clauses 18.1.2 and 18.1.3 of the Regulations outline the process that all Accredited Agents must adhere to when making an approach to a player once they are of an eligible age.
"Specifically, clause 18.1.5 prohibits an Accredited Agent from approaching a player or their parents/legal guardians prior to 1 October in the year that the player turns 16. In addition, Clause 18.1.6 prohibits players being communicated with via social media until at least 3 days after an official approach is made by an Accredited Agent via the Agent Portal."
The fine will be donated to a charity of Connors Sports Management's choosing.
