The AFL has scrapped the centre bounce and the substitute rule following the 2025 season.

New head of football Greg Swann has moved quickly to reshape the game in his first off-season in charge.

The bounce has been a traditional way for umpires to restart games after goals and quarter breaks. Advertisement

The sub rule meanwhile has been ditched in favour of simply having five players on the bench.

AFL umpires Robert Findlay practices a centre bounce AFL Photos via Getty Images

Umpires have often complained about the damage practicing the bounce over and over eventually does to their backs. Removing it also allows the AFL to pick umpires regardless of their bouncing prowess.

Swann said the wellbeing of the umpiring department was key to the decision.

"The centre bounce has long

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