Emotional Collingwood defender Brayden Maynard paid tribute to a “good mate” that passed away when he spoke following his side’s stirring comeback victory over North Melbourne.
It came after Magpies coach Craig McRae hinted at Maynard’s “unfortunate” off-field situation after the King’s Birthday win.
The Pies trailed by 54 points early in the third quarter on Sunday and were staring down the barrel of a monumental upset before roaring back for a stunning 18.11 (119) to 19.4 (118) triumph.
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In Maynard’s 200th game, Collingwood kicked 12 goals to five after the main break for a momentous victory, but the premiership-winner’s thoughts quickly shifted to the friend and his family.
There was no sign of what was to come when he was initially asked on Fox Footy post-match about his milestone match.
“I’m really lost for words,” the 27-year-old began. “It probably wasn’t our day, they brought the pressure, brought the heat, they had most of the game on their terms.
“To be able to fight back in Collingwood style, super proud of the boys.
“Yes it was a milestone for myself, but that is a team performance. Team first mentality.
“Such a good win, going to enjoy a beer tonight, that’s for sure.”
It was when Maynard, who was wearing a black armband, was asked about his journey with the Pies that he divulged the devastating news.
“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 of weeks for me. I 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 amounts 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.
“So yeah really emotional and I just want to get in there now and celebrate with the boys.”
Maynard, who plays the role of an agitator, tough guy type in the Collingwood backline, often earns the ire of opposition fans for his on-field antics.
He is also renowned of course for his spoil gone wrong on Angus Brayshaw in last year’s finals series that left the star Demon with another concussion and ultimately retiring from the sport.
The 2022 All-Australian received plenty of boos in last Monday’s King’s Birthday clash rematch Melbourne.
After that game, Collingwood coach Craig McRae spoke about Maynard’s off-field issues, which have now become clear.
“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.
“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.”