Former footballer appointed new ACA chief

Cricket365
September 11, 2014

The Australian Cricketers' Association have announced that former Aussie Rules player Alistair Nicholson is their new CEO, after Paul Marsh resigned from the role recently, after 13 years in charge.

The former Melbourne Demons player used to be an executive with the AFL, where Marsh has now gone, and was voted by ACA President Greg Dyer, Shane Watson, Lisa Sthalekar and Neil Maxwell.

Dyer said of the appointment: "His exposure to the issues faced by athletes during his time with the AFLPA, combined with his roles at Gemba make him a great choice for the position."

Australia all-rounder Watson added: "We're thrilled to welcome Alistair on board. In addition to his background in sport from a business and strategic viewpoint, Alistair has an impressive understanding of issues from a player's perspective, which I'm sure will resonate with current players as well as the broader ACA membership.

"I know the players will look forward to working with him and continuing the ACA's history of strong and passionate representation, and providing us with a vital collective voice in the game."

Nicholson, who will starts the job on October 27, said: "I'm honoured and humbled to be given the opportunity to represent the ACA members.

"I am passionate about the range of issues facing players and motivated by the desire to ensure access to world leading services, including supporting players to prepare themselves for their post sporting life.

"The ACA is a terrific organisation and has achieved a large amount in a relatively short period. The current partnership approach provides a strong basis to build upon and I look forward to working with all stakeholders to grow the game of cricket in an increasingly sophisticated sporting environment, both in Australia and overseas."