HAMPDEN Region Football Development Manager Alan Thompson is looking forward to spending more time with his family after calling time on a 37-year career.
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The 68-year-old, who has served 33 years with AFL Victoria and 37 in football development, will complete his final day with AFL Western District next Friday.
"I've enjoyed the time and created some really good connections with clubs and the clubs have been really supportive of me over the time," Thompson said.
"The job has changed a lot and I'm hopeful that footy is in a better state than what it was 37 years ago."
Thompson started his journey in a development role for the Hampden region with Fitzroy, a club he played 138 games for between 1970-79, in 1982.
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He was instrumental in starting Vickick - now known as Auskick - and has had a hand in a number of junior, school and female football programs that have helped develop some of the region's top footballers.
Thompson also started the region's talent programs with the Geelong Falcons (2004-12), Greater Western Victoria Rebels (2009-19) and Western Bulldogs Academy (2017-19).
The father-of-three is looking forward to spending more time watching his six grandchildren as they begin their sporting journeys.
AFLWD Commercial and Operations Manager Matt Ross thanked Thompson for his dedication.
"He has witnessed and assisted a number of players through introducing them to the sport via Auskick and as of now a number of those players have been through the AFL system," he said.
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