Don't all the out of contract players who have signed with GC still have to go through the draft process?

No - this isn't about fairness or logic GFCB.

What the AFL is doing is creating an unsustainable structure on the Gold Coast and praying they get massive sponsorship and TV revenue out of it. It won't happen though. Just do the sums ...

45 players paid between $200k and $1.5m a year, let's say averaging 600k because they've gone only after big names here = $25 million. Gate receipts at 12 home games for 20,000 people at $30 average = $5 million (BEFORE expenses). Good sponsorship = no more than $3 million. Royalties on supporter gear $3 million, 20,000 memberships at $100 is $2million. TV revenue share is about $2m. Deduct about $3m just to administer the club and I'm coming up $15m short. I hope these players who are moving are prepared for pay-cuts in 3 years and I hope every other club is prepared to pitch in $3m each to save the AFL when it falls in a heap in that time.

Now double that when GWS falls over.

As for the fairness of poaching players who have been developed by the other clubs and, no, don't expect to see any additional draft picks for Geelong or any other team to replace their stars. Quite the opposite - GCS and GWS have all the priority picks usually reserved for the bottom teams. It would never stand up in court if challenged but Demetriou rules with an iron fist and a leaden brain

Nope. The AFL are giving GC for 2011 and Greater Western Sydney in 2012 special privileges because they want their new franchises to attract supporters and members. It's all about $$$ to the corporate style AFL board.

Gary Ablett (or any other uncontracted player) can turn down an GC offer and sign a new contract with their club or go into the draft.

I heard that Harper is rumored to have a $10 million contract in negotiation and Strasburg is getting 15. you will think of that somebody like Strasburg would want for use to getting interest as quickly as each 5 days. replace: Harper basically signed a $9.9 mil/5 year handle the Nationals

No mate, the AFL have given them concessions to get the team off the ground, They also will get draft picks in addition to their free signings. The GWS side will receive the same concessions. cheers mate