by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago
The Western Bulldogs have lost their football department general manager James Fantasia to Hawthorn. Fantasia, who has worked in the industry for almost 20 years and has been general manager with the Bulldogs for the past six years, replaces Mark Evans. Evans left the Hawks to replace Adrian Anderson as AFL Operations Manager. Fantasia began his career as Adelaide's recruiting manager 1995-2007. He had two stints in senior management with the SANFL 1991-95 and 2006-2007. He also served as Norwood's (SANFL) development manager 1988-1991. Prior to that, he worked as a teacher.
Hawthorn CEO Stuart Fox said Fantasia's experience and knowledge would be of great benefit to the Hawks and said the club was impressed with Fantasia's leadership style. Fox said "James is a quality operator, an outstanding character and is highly respected within the football industry."
Bulldogs Chief Executive Simon Garlick paid tribute to Fantasia and wished him well with the Hawks. He said Fantasia had been a valued member of the club's management team whose contributions would be enduring. "James has played a significant role in the evolution of the .. Club ... Perhaps the greatest contribution James has made ... is best reflected by the strength of the football department ... and the calibre of people that have been brought in ... on his watch”.
Source: Leah Mirabella, Hawthorn Media Release; Denis Bicer, Western Bulldogs Media Release
Article last changed on Saturday, April 20, 2013 - 9:20 PM EDT
