SUPERSTAR Geelong midfielder Patrick Dangerfield has taken over the presidency of the AFL Players' Association.

The Brownlow medallist replaces retired Fremantle champion Matthew Pavlich, who decided to step down after three years in the role.

Pavlich said the timing of the decision was perfect as it avoided a glut of experience leaving the board simultaneously.

"What we've found sometimes is a large majority of players can retire at once and therefore there can be a bit of a void," Pavlich said at Monday's AFLPA season launch in Melbourne.

"This allowed us to be a bit more planned.

"To have a really structured and thought-out process, we've got one of the best players in the game, (one of the) most influential people, both on and off the field, taking the role. It strongly advocates players do aspire to this role."

Dangerfield had been on the board for the past four years and had been vice-president for close to 12 months.

"It's an honour to be appointed as president and take the baton from Pav and all the incredible work he's done in leading the players through the extensive and successful collective bargaining agreement negotiations over the past few years," Dangerfield said.

"This CBA has achieved some really strong results for players and I'm looking forward to working closely with the board and our player delegates to implement these outcomes and continue to provide strong advocacy for all players."

Carlton defender Sam Docherty, who won't play this year after having a left knee reconstruction last November, was elevated to vice-president.

Former Docker Luke McPharlin has joined the board, replacing retired St Kilda gun Leigh Montagna.

Adelaide midfielder Rory Sloane and Greater Western Sydney defender Phil Davis were re-elected to the board unopposed.

One-time Essendon and Melbourne player Chris Heffernan joined Andrew Twaits as an appointed director.

The changes took place at the AFLPA's annual general meeting on Monday.

AFLPA CEO Paul Marsh paid tribute to Pavlich and Montagna.

"Both Matthew and Leigh have been brilliant advocates and leaders for all AFL players during their time as AFLPA delegates and board members. We thank them immensely for their commitment to the association and wish them well in their future endeavours," Marsh said.

"In looking forward, we have now made some strong appointments to replace Matthew and Leigh and as a result, have a dedicated and enthusiastic board established who are focused on achieving what if fair for all players."