Jimmy Bartel says there’s been a significant shift in attitude when it comes to AFL players and community work.

The Geelong great, who took out this year’s Jim Stynes community leadership award, told 3AW it had ‘gone past’ simply running footy clinics for kids.

‘They (clinics) are still fantastic and the kids get a lot out of it, but I think the number of players who are ambassadors and roll their sleeves up and get into the community with whatever is quite large and often goes unnoticed,’ Bartel explained.

‘You just hope you can give a little bit back.’

He took a public role in the fight against domestic violence this season, even growing a beard to help raise awareness.

‘It was a personal issue and something that’s bothered me for quite some time,’ Bartel told Neil Mitchell.

He has worked with Rosie Batty in tackling the issue and had nothing but praise for the 2015 Australian Of The Year.

‘There aren’t enough words to describe her tireless efforts,’ he said.

On a lighter note, Bartel had his tongue planted firmly in his cheek when asked whether he’d play on next season.

‘I’m about to sign a five-year deal, you can break it on your radio show,’ he said.

(A decision is yet to be made, for what it’s worth).

Bartel will shave his beard on Tuesday.

Click PLAY below to hear the full interview on 3AW Mornings