GWS Giants CEO Dave Matthews will step down from his role at the end of the 2026 season after more than 15 years at the AFL’s youngest club.
Matthews has been with the Giants since 2011, before their inception into the AFL, but says the time is right to seek something new.
“It has been a privilege to lead the Giants and I am grateful to the players, staff, members and fans that have built this club,” he said.
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“Now that the foundations of the club are well established, it is time for the next challenge.
“The AFL commission made a bold decision to start an 18th club as it recognised the growth opportunity in Sydney and Canberra and building this club in a new and highly competitive market has been both a great challenge and opportunity that has required a huge commitment from so many people over a long period of time.
“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and firmly believe there is an exciting future ahead for the club.”
Giants chair Tim Reed paid tribute to Matthews on behalf of the staff, players and board.
“The club extends its sincere gratitude to David for his leadership, passion, and tireless contribution over more than a decade. His legacy will remain embedded in the fabric of the Giants,” Mr Reed said.
AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon thanked Matthews for his service to the Giants.
“David has played a major role in developing and leading AFL strategies since he commenced at head office in 1998. And there has been no more important strategy in that time than driving expansion,” he said.
“His creativity and resilience have the GIANTS in the position they are in today. And personally I look forward to his ongoing contribution to the growth of our game.”
