The Fremantle Football Club has confirmed the appointment of two new directors to its Board, with two long-serving directors set to conclude their tenure in the coming months as part of the Club’s ongoing Board succession planning.
Fremantle Life Member Luke McPharlin and prominent Club member Simon Growden will join the Board, as James Clement and Tony Grist conclude their service in July and November respectively.
These appointments reflect the Club’s continued focus on strong governance, contemporary expertise and a deep connection to its members and community, ensuring the Board remains well-equipped to guide Fremantle’s long-term strategy and sustained success both on and off the field.
Fremantle President Chris Sutherland said the changes marked an important moment in the Club’s evolution.
“James and Tony have each given enormously to this Club, and we owe them both a sincere debt of gratitude,” Sutherland said.
“Their contributions have helped shape the direction and strength of Fremantle both on and off the field.
“At the same time, we are thrilled to welcome Luke and Simon to the Board. Both bring outstanding professional capability, strong leadership credentials and a genuine connection to our Club and community.
“Together, these appointments ensure we continue to build a Board that is diverse in experience, grounded in our values and focused on delivering long-term success for our members.”
Clement advised the Club he will step down effective 1 July, due to increasing business commitments.
During his seven-year tenure as a director, he has made a strong contribution through his commercial expertise and role on the Club’s football, innovation and performance committee. He has played an important role influencing key decisions that have shaped the Club's direction on and off the field.
The Fremantle Football Club thanks James sincerely for the considerable time he invested in the Club and the lasting impact he has made.
McPharlin, who will assume the position vacated by Clement, needs little introduction to Fremantle supporters. He played more than 244 games for the Club across 14 seasons, placing him fifth on Fremantle’s all-time games record list.
Since retiring from the game in 2015, McPharlin has demonstrated the same character and
thoughtfulness that defined his playing career. He completed a Bachelor of Pharmacy and a Master of Business Administration, pursuing a career as an ICU critical care pharmacist at Fiona Stanley Hospital.
In addition, he served as a board member on the AFLPA for three years and has recently become a pharmacy business owner.
He brings a deep understanding of high-performance environments, strong leadership capability and a lifelong connection to the Club that will be invaluable at Board level.
McPharlin said he was looking forward to the governing role at the Club.
“The Fremantle Football Club holds a very special place in my heart,” McPharlin said.
“I’m incredibly proud to have played the role I did on the field, and I’m now excited to contribute to the Club in a new way.
“I look forward to working with my fellow directors to help build an even stronger future for the Club, the players and our members.”
Grist will conclude his service as a director on 30 November 2026 after reaching the maximum term permitted under the Club’s constitution, capping a decade of significant contribution.
Over ten years, Grist has played an important role in guiding the Club’s governance and strategic direction, bringing a measured perspective and unwavering commitment to every decision.
His leadership has extended beyond the Board through his role as Chair of the Purple Hands Foundation, where he has helped grow the Club’s community impact across Western Australia. The Club is pleased that he will continue as Chair of the Foundation.
Replacing Grist, Growden will join the Board from 1 December 2026.
Growden is a highly experienced financial services executive with more than 30 years’ experience advising high-net-worth individuals, corporates and family groups.
He currently serves in a senior leadership role with Shadforth Financial Group and is widely recognised for his expertise in governance, investment strategy and stakeholder engagement.
A long-standing and passionate supporter of the Club, Growden has played a significant leadership role within the A.J. Diamond Club, serving as President and helping strengthen the connection between the Club and its business community.
His deep understanding of the Club’s operations, values and stakeholder network positions him strongly to contribute at Board level.
“The Fremantle Football Club is more than a sporting institution, it is a cornerstone of this community,” Growden said.
“I am honoured to have the opportunity to serve on the board and to contribute to its continued growth and success.
I look forward to working alongside my fellow directors in the best interests of the Club and its members.”
The Fremantle Football Club sincerely thanks both James Clement and Tony Grist for their commitment, leadership and lasting contribution to the Club. Their impact will be felt well into the future.
These Board changes position the Club strongly for its next phase, with a continued focus on member experience, strong governance and delivering sustained success on and off the field.
