Finally some fixture sense from the AFL

[D-N-R]

My solution won't "fix" things, what it will do is take out the manipulation of the draw that gets people up in arms. An 18 team, 22 round fixture will never be fair to all teams in any one year, but why not try to even things out over time ?

I agree that the manipulation of the draw is what is trying to be remedied. I just don't think the solution you are proposing will help teams in a single season (which is when results really matter), when it is designed to even itself out over a few seasons, but it is a better system than what the AFL have suggested.

 

[Pottering]

I agree that the manipulation of the draw is what is trying to be remedied. I just don't think the solution you are proposing will help teams in a single season (which is when results really matter), when it is designed to even itself out over a few seasons, but it is a better system than what the AFL have suggested.

I think what will truly help all teams is a draw that isn't manipulated by one of the myriad systems being put forward. No system is flawless, not even mine (because 18 into 22 will never be equitable in any one year), but the concocted ones suggested will always draw criticism that, in any one year, they haven't delivered the equity they promised, so I think mine is better and fairer because it is both random and balanced over time.

 

[Glenno23]

Love it.

I've been advocating something a little similar on these boards for years and been mostly laughed at, particularly with the bottom teams playing for draft picks.

Teams, in particular the bottom echelon would play the season right out and it would keep their supporters engaged right until the end.

Simple solution to the draft picks. Lock away the draft order after round 17 (after everyone has played each other once)

Teams that may be bottom come round 17, may have a red hot crack in the final rounds knowing that they have top pick locked and no need to tank

It's not like there would be a huge shift of positions. Sure, some teams may drop a few spots after the lock, but thats their problem for not playing so well and they will still get a decent pick

I heard this solution from David King btw