Callan Ward has become accustomed to the media's intense interest in his every move this AFL season, but admitted it was surprising to see his mother making front-page news.

Ward was booed by some fans in his last game for the Western Bulldogs last weekend. When news broke of the 21-year-old's move to Greater Western Sydney, his mother Kerri said the AFL was to blame.

A photo of her and Callan Ward's sisters was featured on the front page of Melbourne's Herald Sun newspaper this week.

AFL chief Andrew Demetriou later defended the league's expansion, but did admit he felt for Kerri Ward because her young son was leaving Melbourne and heading interstate.

Callan Ward said he was a little baffled that the AFL community had taken such an interest in his venture.

"It's good to know everyone's interested in where I'm playing my football next year," he said.

"It makes me feel good, it's a compliment to me.

"The media tried to make a story with my mum. She's one person with her own opinion, that's just the way it is."

Ward credited Kerri, and his whole family for the support they offered while he agonised over his decision.

"She's been fantastic. Really supportive just like every proud mother to their son," he said.

"I don't think she's unhappy about it, she's really excited about it."

Ward praised the AFL for the way they've handled the league's expansion.

"I'm happy with the way the AFL have put their rules in place and the way it's worked out has been pretty smooth," he said.

"As a kid I was an Essendon supporter. My dad loved Kevin Sheedy, so it's really exciting for me to now be coached by Kevin Sheedy."

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