Collingwood milestone man Brayden Maynard has given a sobering interview after his side’s euphoric one-point win over North Melbourne, sharing the news that his close friend has passed away.
The 200-gamer is celebrating one of the greatest comebacks in AFL history after the Magpies came from 54 points down to shatter North Melbourne hearts on Sunday.
But he remains in mourning after losing a mate in recent weeks.
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Speaking in a gripping post-match interview, the Magpies hardman said his milestone “means everything”, but has other things on his mind.
“I absolutely love this club, I love these boys,” he said.
“I’m getting a little bit emotional because it’s been a big couple for me. I’ve had a good mate of mine pass away to mental health issues.
“So, Deb, Amy and Bomber, if you’re watching this, my heart goes out to you and all your family. Much love from the Collingwood family and the whole AFL community, we’re sending you all our love, endless amount of hugs every day.
“It’s more than a game, it’s more than just 200 games for the black and white; I do this for my family, my friends, and the whole Collingwood supporter base, and these boys here and the coaching staff.
“Really emotional and I just want to get in there now and celebrate with the boys.”
Maynard then kissed the black armband he was wearing during the game as he ran off to be with his teammates.
The 27-year-old has had a lot to deal with in recent weeks, having been simultaneously booed and cheered during the King’s Birthday clash with Melbourne on Monday.
The previous time Melbourne and Collingwood played, Maynard’s collision with Angus Brayshaw in last year’s qualifying final led to a controversial tribunal case, where the Collingwood player was cleared and went on to play in their grand final victory.
But it effectively ended the career of Brayshaw, who was told by doctors to retire because of repeated concussions caused by head knocks.
Collingwood coach Craig McRae revealed after the game on Monday that Maynard had been battling an unspecified personal issue which, as we now know, was the death of his friend.
“He’s had a lot going on this week — I won’t share the details of it — but off the field it’s been really hard for him,” McRae said of Maynard on Monday.
“So, I’m sure he wanted to put on a good performance for the stuff that’s happened outside of here.
“He’s a proud man and he played exceptionally well. We love him.
“It’s unfortunate what’s happened in his private life, but I will leave it at that.”
Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin said they had not discussed Maynard pre-game.
The player himself noted Collingwood fans had given him plenty of support during the game.
“I cop it a little bit, especially when I have the ball,” he told Channel 7.
“But to my fans, they come over the top, like they always do.”
Asked if he thrived amid the boos, Maynard laughed and replied: “We all do, don’t we? We love it when the fans get involved, but I guess it’s all part of the game.
“If the fans don’t get involved, then what’s the game?”
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