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AFL strike not off the table: Dangerfield

With the AFL and AFLPA at loggerheads over a new revenue sharing model, Brownlow Medal winner Patrick Dangerfield says a player strike remains a possibility.

Brownlow Medal winner Patrick Dangerfield
Patrick Dangerfield says strike action during the AFL's pre-season competition remains an option. (AAP)

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Source: AAP


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Geelong superstar Patrick Dangerfield says strike action during the AFL's pre-season competition remains an option as the AFLPA seeks a better deal for players.

On the day the AFL announced the fixture for its rebadged pre-season competition, the JLT Community Series, Dangerfield told reporters it could be affected by industrial action if the AFL doesn't resume stalled talks on a new revenue sharing model.

"It's a chance, I'm not saying it's a definite possibility, but certainly if nothing gets done then we need to look at all avenues to secure a deal," Dangerfield said.

"At the moment the AFL isn't speaking to the PA ... we're not going to get anything done unless the conversation starts.

"Nothing's off the table at the moment ... as (AFLPA chief executive) Paul Marsh has already stated, we haven't reached an agreement and we're a fair way away, so it would be good to sit down with the boss (AFL chief Gillon McLachlan) and hopefully strike a deal that's fair for all parties."

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AFLPA delegates from around the country will convene in the Victorian coastal town of Torquay this week to discuss the stalled negotiations on a new collective bargaining agreement.

The AFL has baulked at the players' demand for a new percentage-based revenue sharing model that they say gives them more incentive to help grow the game.

Dangerfield, a member of the AFLPA board, admitted it was frustrating that the league had broken off talks and reiterated the PA's firm stance on the issue.

"We have a clear direction from all 850 players, who we represent, and it's not until we satisfy the needs of those players that we'll be satisfied," he said.

"It is a bit (frustrating) ... as players there is no game (without us).

"The game starts with us. We're a part of the AFL, we understand there are other areas of the game that need to be catered for as well - fan engagement and stadiums - but without players there is no competition."


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