This is why I get rather sad when "good" SANFL players get "promoted" to the AFL to end up playing a fringe role, or in the VFL. The SANFL club officials all seem keen on them going, all for the players good I suppose, but never seem to reflect on how it affects their own planning etc for their club's season.
Their attitude cements the idea that the SANFL is a second tier comp, with the purpose of propping up the AFL.