Essendon coach Brad Scott recently praised AFL CEO Andrew Dillon following a productive meeting with league officials and fellow coaches.

The significant dinner took place on May 19, 2025, at the Builders Arms in Fitzroy, featuring notable coaches such as Alastair Clarkson and Simon Goodwin.

This year's gathering was smaller and held in a quieter setting, fostering more meaningful dialogue among attendees.

During the meeting, the group emphasized the need for increased investment in football departments, which have been deprioritized since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Scott expressed concern that funding for football departments is currently a low priority in AFL expenditure, despite their critical role.

The discussions also covered several key topics, including the coaching soft cap, talent pathways, and the importance of increasing Indigenous player representation in the AFL.

Dillon highlighted the need to address the contentious soft cap that limits coaching staff salaries, as well as the Match Review Officer (MRO) process.

Scott acknowledged recent criticisms faced by the AFL regarding various issues, including the Willie Rioli saga and concussion matters, but expressed confidence in Dillon's leadership.

He described Dillon as an exceptional administrator capable of navigating difficult decisions, despite the challenges ahead.

Dillon plans to engage with all 18 coaches throughout the season, continuing a tradition of direct communication initiated by his predecessor.

He emphasized the value of face-to-face meetings with coaches to better understand their concerns and insights about the game.

Scott described the meeting as the best AFL discussion he could recall, highlighting Dillon's willingness to listen to the coaches' concerns.