The term 'elite' is a rather unfortunate term to use when referring to individuals
Historically the term referred to a 'social group' within society and is better used as a group expression where an ('elite') individual is just 'part of' an 'elite' group
The AFL is the elite level of aussie rules in the country, hence all the players are part of that elite group. They are 'elite footballers' because they are part of the 'elite' competition.
It seems to me most posters are really arguing the case for the 'elite of the elite'
I'd much rather try to define what a 'star' is