Former Melbourne centre half forward David Schwarz has accused AFLPA boss Paul Marsh of having little empathy for players suffering gambling addiction.
“I promise you Paul Marsh wouldn’t be too worried about how many players fall out the other end,” Schwarz said on SEN’s The Run Home.
“But the managers, family members and clubs do. Paul Marsh is all about getting the right deal for the players (through the CBA)...I know that first hand. But his area of expertise is not gambling and the issues associated with it.”
Schwarz, who battled gambling addiction throughout his playing career, has helped over 120 players, 25 assistant coaches and more than 30 board members since 2005.
He roasted the AFLPA for its lack of follow-up and care when it came to dealing with gambling, an issue he believes is head-and-shoulders the games biggest problem.
“The players don’t trust the AFLPA because things leak,” Schwarz said.
“Too many players come out of the system and they are stuffed financially and they are let go and not followed up.
“I’m dealing with three players at the moment that came out last year and there’s been no follow-up call from the AFLPA.
“If the players association thinks it is doing a great job then it is dead-set kidding itself.
“It hasn’t not done enough for the player welfare for a long, long time.”
Schwarz said the fact he was overlooked by the AFLPA to lead its responsible gambling policy had no bearing on his stance.
He said the only priority was the players and he would continue to assist any that sought him out for guidance.
“It’s a huge problem and one I’m passionate about,” he said.
“I want to be there to help any players and hopefully the AFLPA can take the steps needed and show the care needed to do likewise.”