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BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

AUGUST 2025

Each month we want to invite you to get to know a little more about one of the AFA Directors.  For August, to kick things off let's get to know a little more about our newest board member, John Wreghitt.

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Director - JOHN WREGHITT

Home State: South Australia 

Years in the Sport: 36 and counting

 

Other Roles Held: 

  • Player – Elizabeth Lions, UniSA Eagles 

  • Head Coach Juniors – Elizabeth Lions 

  • Club Trainer – UniSA Eagles 

  • Head Coach Juniors – UniSA Eagles 

  • Head Coach Seniors – UniSA Eagles 

  • President – UniSA Eagles 

  • Board Member – AFSA Chairperson 

  • Current Director – American Football Australia (AFA) 

Why American Football: 

 

American Football has shaped my life in more ways than I can count. Over the past 36 years, it’s given me lifelong friendships, unforgettable experiences, and a sense of purpose in helping grow a sport I love. 

Football mirrors life—it rewards what you put in, demands discipline, and thrives on teamwork. Every player has a role, and when everyone executes, the plan comes together. 

One of the most fulfilling parts of my journey was seeing young people enter the sport full of energy (sometimes a bit rough around the edges!) and, through strong coaching and mentoring, grow into outstanding adults—raising families and giving back to their communities. That transformation is what it's all about. 

VISION FOR THE FUTURE: 

 

This sport has incredible potential to grow far beyond where it is today. I joined the AFA Board to contribute to that journey—to help drive continuous improvement and push the game forward. 

With everyone rowing in the same direction, we can build something truly special. We’re fortunate to have passionate, committed people in this community, and together, we can take American Football in Australia to the next level.

DIRECTOR PROFILE: 

John was elected to the board in May 2025.

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John is a passionate advocate for American Football having been involved over the past 36 years, initially as a player before moving into club and league administrative roles. Most recently John served as the American Football SA Chairman between 2020-2025 before joining the AFA board following the end of his tenure.

 

John has over 20 years’ experience in the manufacturing industry. Currently working as a Continuous Improvement Lead, John’s professional career includes an extensive background in strategic and long-term planning, organisational structures and cross functional team leadership.

 

As the AFA board continues to diversify its skills matrix and focuses on servicing the new dual code sporting environment, John’s professional and sporting background is well placed to support the tackle code and enhance board communication and action planning.

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"The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team."

— Phil Jackson

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