AFL Barwon to Farewell Long-Serving Football Leader at Conclusion of 2025 Season

AFL Barwon announces that Head of Football, Michael Limb, will conclude his tenure at the end of the 2025 season, bringing to a close an extraordinary 23-year contribution to football in the region.

Michael began his journey with the organisation under Football Geelong and has since played a pivotal role in shaping the game locally through his time as Junior Football Manager, Senior Football Manager, Head of Operations, and most recently, Head of Football at AFL Barwon.

Across more than two decades, Michael’s contribution to the growth and governance of community football in the Barwon region has been immense. His guidance and football intellect have underpinned a period of substantial development, ensuring clubs and competitions have continued to thrive.

Michael has been a guiding figure for clubs, players, coaches, and volunteers across all levels of community football. His deep understanding of the game and its governance needs, coupled with his ability to influence, has supported the region through significant growth, challenges, and transformation.

From managing competitions and player registrations, to overseeing disciplinary matters and implementing governance reforms, Michael’s fingerprints are on nearly every operational aspect of the game in the Barwon region. His work behind the scenes has ensured that thousands of participants have had the opportunity to enjoy safe, well-run, and inclusive competitions year after year.

Michael’s knowledge and experience have been integral to many aspects of the game’s operations, particularly in overseeing the Match Review Panel, Tribunal processes, Player Points System and Allowable Player Payments. His commitment to fairness, integrity, and supporting clubs has helped create a robust football framework that will continue to benefit the region long after his departure.

AFL Barwon Region General Manager, Lisa Patterson, paid tribute to Michael's long-standing service.

“Michael has been a cornerstone of football administration in our region for more than 20 years,” Patterson said. “His wealth of knowledge, calm and considered approach, and genuine care for our clubs and people have been invaluable. He has worked with humility, and his behind-the-scenes efforts have underpinned the integrity of our competitions. While we are sad to see him go, we are incredibly grateful for the legacy he leaves behind.”

Reflecting on his time with the organisation, Michael said:

 “Having started in 2003 managing the Junior Football Program three days a week, I had no idea that 23 years later I would still be in the organisation. This journey has been extremely rewarding, to be a part of the incredible growth of football and netball in our region. Clearly it is a work environment that I enjoy, having remained for so long. I feel blessed to have met so many amazing and selfless people throughout my tenure."

"Whilst we have not always agreed or shared the same opinions, we all have a common desire to provide the best possible outcomes for our participants and stakeholders. I will truly value the friendships I have made and have the utmost respect for the individual contributions made by so many wonderful volunteers. Thank you all for your support, I look forward to sharing a beer and a laugh somewhere at the local footy in the years to come.”

AFL Barwon extends its thanks to Michael for his extraordinary contribution and wishes him and his partner Kellie all the very best as they begin the next chapter beyond football at seasons end.