Essendon list guru Adrian Dodoro is reportedly keeping his finger on the pulse at the Hangar, with his announced “step back” from the club’s list operation supposedly “not the case”.
The Bombers announced last year that Dodoro would be stepping away from his long-time role in favour of up-and-comer Matt Rosa, who would be moving into the role of AFL Talent & Operations Manager.
Albeit it seems the veteran negotiator is very much remaining an integral member of the club’s list directive.
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Herald Sun journalist Jay Clark told Fox Footy’s Midweek Tackle Dodoro is still very much involved in Essendon’s ongoing list management operation.
“The press release Essendon put out there after (last year’s) bumper trade period was that he was stepping aside. Well, it’s not the case,” began Clark.
“We can tell Essendon fans tonight that he’s doing all of the contract work.
“So, I mean, some big deals recently announced — Jordan Ridley, Kyle Langford. The Ridley deal (until 2029) was criticised, and Langford sort of similar, but these contracts have been front-ended, so they had some money to spare.”
Clark suggested the additional cap space down the line could be utilised in a potential pursuit of a star forward.
“They pay in the earlier seasons, that creates room in the later years to get active in that free agency market, chase that big key forward banana the club needs,” proffered Clark.
“McKay (was) beautiful down back in Round 1 (but) they still need that prized goalkicker.
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“Adrian Dodoro, for all the talk about him leaving, stepping aside — he’s still there, he’s still doing all the contracts while Matty Rosa cuts his teeth. I think that’ll take some time, so he’s a steady hand at the till and I think it could be a parting gift.
“The bumper trade period last (year), Jade Gresham very good, McKay very good, (Xavier) Duursma showed good signs, and Todd Goldstein (in the) ruck. So, it was a great trade period.
“I think they’re smart in what they’re doing with some of the list management and Adrian Dodoro (is) absolutely at the pointy end of it still.”
Dodoro stated late last year the time was right to hand over the reins to Rosa, who he helped choose to perform the role.
“I approached Craig (Vozzo, club CEO) back in April (2023) to discuss the concept of transition and I feel that now is the right time to make this decision,” he said last September.
“I sat on the panel to assist in the selection of Matt, and I believe he will be an outstanding acquisition to the club for years to come. I look forward to working with Matt moving forward.
“These roles are very taxing on individuals and their families, and it just feels like that. After nearly three decades and with stability in key roles at the club, now is the right time for me to take a step back into a role which will provide me and my family with a better work life balance.”
Rosa tallied 207 AFL games for the West Coast Eagles and Gold Coast Suns between 2005 and 2018.
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