Chief Executive Officer Appointment

Gridiron Australia is pleased to announce its appointment of its Chief Executive Officer as the organisation embarks on an exciting new era for the game in this country.

Following an extensive recruitment process, Gridiron Australia has been able to secure the services of Wade Kelly to the role of Chief Executive Officer.

Wade, a former professional rugby player with a career spanning Australia, England, Italy and the United States over 16 years, then returned to Australia, and then Europe to head up and reform some of the most prestigious Rugby Programs in the world.

Gridiron Australia Chair Bret Mullavey said Wade had been chosen from an extremely strong field of candidates and had impressed the selection panel with his vision and ambition for American Football in Australia.

“Wade has joined Gridiron Australia at an exciting time in the sports history. We have a number of emerging codes, and are looking to capture on the increasing interest in both full tackle and flag football. With Wade's extensive experience in sports, and his drive to grow grass roots competition, we are excited for the future of the sport in Australia.” Mullavey said.

Wade said he was thrilled to be joining the organisation and leading Gridiron Australia at such an important time of change and growth, and is looking forward to working with the member organisations and clubs to ensure that we continue to grow participation, pathways and lifting the standard of performance.

“Extremely excited to be joining Gridiron Australia at a time when the game is exploding in popularity in every state of Australia and indeed Oceania. The key now will be for Gridiron Australia to provide outstanding platforms for all participants in the game. From my experience in rival codes, I have seen first-hand the impact and inspiration the likes of Jesse Williams, Adam Gotsis, Jordan Mailata, Jordan Berry and Valentine Holmes have had on the aspiring athletes of Australia. Couple that with the Collegiate opportunities in the US and Flag Football now working towards becoming an Olympic Sport (LA 2028) the “pathway to dreams” for Gridiron Australia participants, in all genders and ages, really is phenomenal. What an amazing time for the code in Australia and everyone involved.” Kelly said.

Wade will join Gridiron Australia on November 7.