Article: AFL killed test over body image fears
This decision has caused quite the controversy…
Article was written by Tyson Otto for news.au.com, published November 7, 2021
AFL Killed Test Over Body Image Fears
One of the most dreaded tests in sport was absent from AFL draft camps last month after a memo was sent to clubs announcing it was dead.
“The AFL cancelled standard skinfold testing for draft prospects on the back of body image health concerns, it was confirmed on Sunday.
It was reported Saturday night club recruiters had been left with their eyebrows raised about the league’s decision to scrap the common body-fat measurement tool ahead of the 2021 Draft on November 24.
The AFL has since responded to the report to clarify clubs had been informed about the decision to kill off the skinfold test in a memo issued to the 18 clubs in August.
An AFL spokesperson has confirmed AFL executive general manager of football Andrew Dillon sent a memo to all clubs on August 2 to announce the body composition measurement will no longer feature in AFL talent pathway programs.”