Longest Serving AFL Chairman Richard Colless Set to Leave Sydney Swans

Australian Football League team, Sydney Swans have announced chairman Richard Colless, the AFL’s longest-serving club chairman, is to stand down when his current term ends in February next year.

Colless has been at the helm of the reigning premiers since May, 1993 and told fellow directors of his decision on Thursday morning.

“There is no particular reason for this decision other than the old adage that it is probably ‘about time’,” said Colless in a club statement.

“It has been one of the great privileges of my life to be associated with this extraordinary organisation.

“I want to place on record how indebted I am for the support of hundreds, but probably thousands of people, over the last 20 years.”

Prior to joining the Sydney board, Colless was the inaugural chairman of the West Coast Eagles and, during his time at the Swans, he also held the position of chairman of the AFL/NSW Commission.

In 2006, Colless’ efforts for Sydney, and the code in general, were recognised when he was awarded the Order of Australia for his services to Australian Football.