The biggest change to the way games
The AFL has introduced nine rule tweaks or interpretation changes – such as stricter approaches to deliberate rushed behinds and deliberate out of bounds – over the past three years.
But the League has resisted the urge to tinker with the game ahead of the 2018 season.
"The beauty
"Last year we spent a hell of a lot of time in the pre-season coaching new rules and we haven't done that this year, so we've been able to spend time on other things."
Kennedy has toured the country with his annual presentation to AFL clubs over the past month.
In the absence of new interpretations, he has focused on educating players and coaches on the contentious areas of deliberate rushed behinds, designated rucks, encroaching on the protected area and the holding the ball rule.
Umpiring representatives had lobbied for the bounce to be scrapped last year, citing injury concerns and recalled bounces that slow the
But
"It's a skill that needs to stay in the game and we expect our umpires to be bouncing it at the level that is required in AFL football," Kennedy said.
"I imagine it will be just the same as it has been in years past - if we get injuries then we'll deal with it.
"(But) it's a very low percentage of bounces that are actually recalled.
"They actually bounce at around 96
The AFL will hire a strength and conditioning coach to help avoid shoulder injuries that can occur when bouncing the ball.