Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) President Greg Dyer, Australian coach Darren Lehmann and Australian captain Michael Clarke today congratulated Paul Marsh on his outstanding contribution at the helm of both the ACA and Federation of International Cricketers' Associations (FICA).
Mr Marsh, who today announced his resignation as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the ACA to take up the role of CEO of the Australian Rules Football Players’ Association (AFLPA), has been a driving force behind cricketers’ rights and his strong leadership has played a crucial role in the improvement in player conditions both in Australia and overseas.
Joining the ACA in 2001 as Membership and Operations Manager, Mr Marsh succeeded inaugural CEO Tim May in 2005 and has overseen a number of significant achievements in almost a decade in this role.
These have included three collective bargaining agreements – known as Memorandums of Understanding - with Cricket Australia. The most recent of these was completed last year and the five-year deal is the longest ever struck between the two organisations.
Included in this agreement is a 26% share of net revenue from next year’s ICC Cricket World Cup, to be used to support past players and help contribute to game development initiatives. The introduction of new categories of ACA membership to include current and former female players are other key milestones to have occurred throughout Mr Marsh’s tenure.
ACA President Greg Dyer congratulated Mr Marsh on his tremendous service.
“On behalf of the members and staff of the Australian Cricketers’ Association, I would like to congratulate Paul on his outstanding contribution to Australian cricket,” he said.
“Paul has been a wonderful advocate for player rights and achieved an enormous amount throughout his time at the helm of the ACA. His approach has been committed and passionate in support of players, both in Australia and internationally, whilst maintaining a key sense of what’s in the broader interests of the game. He has drawn admiration and respect from players and administrators from within this country and beyond.
“Paul leaves behind a strong legacy and we wish him every success in his future career.”
Australian coach Darren Lehmann – a past President of the ACA - also paid tribute to Marsh.
“Paul has left an indelible mark on both the players and the game,” he said.
“Over a long period he has demonstrated a huge amount of passion, forward thinking and loyalty. In my time as ACA President his views were always highly regarded and helped ensure the players were strongly represented.
“From a personal point of view Paul has provided an enormous amount of support. I’ve really valued his leadership, advice, integrity and mateship. There’s no doubt he’ll be sorely missed but he’s left both domestic and Australian cricketers – as well as the game generally – in a really strong position.”
Australian captain Michael Clarke commented:
“On behalf of the current players I’d like to take this opportunity to thank and congratulate Paul for all his hard work and achievements.
“The ACA plays an important role in Australian cricket and I thank Paul for his dedication over the last decade.
“I wish Paul every success for the next stage of his life and thank him for all his support personally and for what he’s provided players both in Australia and around the world.”
Mr Marsh has been a long-serving board member of the Federation of International Cricketers' Associations (FICA), the international representative body of all professional cricketers and their associations. He took on the role of Executive Chairman last year.
A search for a replacement for Paul Marsh as ACA Chief Executive will commence immediately.
Joins the ACA as Membership and Operations Manager.
Paul Marsh appointed CEO.
ACA and CA sign 2005-09 MOU.
Education and Training Grants introduced for current and selected past players.
ACA establishes an Associate Membership category allowing current contracted female players to become members.
ACA Masters program launched to promote and grow cricket in the community.
Associate Membership category removed to allow current contracted female players to become full members.
ACA and CA sign 2009-11 MOU.
Paul Marsh honoured with Kerry Packer Award for his outstanding contribution to the ACA.
ACA and CA sign 20122-12 MOU.
ACA membership passes 1000 mark for first time (membership at June 2014 is 1,220).
ACA and CA agree to five-year MOU, the longest ever struck. A highlight of deal includes securing a 26% share of net revenue from 2015 ICC World Cup, to be used to support past players and help contribute to game development initiatives.
Resolution passed by ACA members to allow past female players to become full ACA members.
Compulsory Player Agent Accreditation Scheme formally introduced by ACA and CA.
CA and ACA agree to new $1.59 million pay deal for female players. CA retainers increase from $15,000 to $52,000 and domestic contracts and minimum standards introduced for all states plus ACT for the first time.
Paul Marsh appointed Executive Chairman of FICA.
ACA launches Past Player Game and Personal Development Program.
Paul Marsh resigns as ACA CEO