MORE:<\/strong> 'Deplorable' Collingwood defensive pressure slammed by Dermott Brereton<\/a><\/p>\n<\/p>\n Hocking's exit will open a key role at the AFL in a critical time, given the challenges that COVID-19 is throwing at the game. The AFL has confirmed that Hocking will leave the role this week. He will take a break before taking up his role at Geelong.<\/p>\n Hocking began his playing career at the Cats in 1984 and went on to feature in 199 games, including the 1989 and 1994 grand finals.<\/p>\n Geelong president Craig Drummond highlighted Hocking's top-class administrative calibre.<\/p>\n "Steve Hocking's deep football and commercial experience is the perfect combination for our next CEO," Drummond said.<\/p>\n "I am confident that Steve's\u00a0values-based leadership, discipline and focus will continue to drive a culture of high performance and success for the club.<\/p>\n "As a strong advocate for the AFL industry, Steve has driven higher standards across all elements of football, including the quality of the game,\u00a0diversity and the mental health of all industry participants.<\/p>\n "We are delighted to welcome Steve back to the club."<\/p>\n For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by<\/strong><\/em> clicking here!<\/strong><\/em><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<\/p>\n