Collingwood defender Brayden Maynard was aware of talk on the field on Thursday night that Carlton’s Elijah Hollands was not right, but did not personally witness anything to raise an alarm.
Maynard was not opposed to Hollands directly in the match but overheard conversations on the ground among teammates who were surprised at the Carlton player’s behaviour.
“I wasn’t aware of what was going on, but I think there was a bit of chatter happening and I didn’t pay much attention to it at all and if I did, I definitely would have said something,” Maynard said.
“I overheard a few things, but as I said, I was too focused on the game to really understand what was actually going on. He was definitely around the area and people were chatting about it, but I was focused on playing the game and if I did notice something myself with Elijah I would have said something, but I was too focused on the game and I can understand why it’s such a big topic.
“But I don’t think it’s a conversation that needs to be had from our end. I think Carlton are doing the best they can to have the situation handled and have the right people in charge to do that, so I don’t need to make any more comments on that.”
Broadly, Maynard said he hoped that if he witnessed a teammate acting unusually he would say something to medical or coaching staff and was certain players at other clubs, including those at Carlton on Thursday night, would be similar.
“To be honest if I saw one of my teammates acting in such a way that Elijah was, then I would definitely say something and mention it to the hierarchy. But like I said that is for Carlton to deal with their player, and everyone is doing the best they can to look after him and that is the issue here – to make sure he gets support around him to make sure his mental health is looked after.”
Collingwood captain Darcy Moore, who is also the AFL Players Association president, did not want to be drawn into commenting on the Hollands issue.
“Clearly, a process is playing out with Carlton and the AFL at the moment. As a players’ association we have been involved in the process intimately over the last few days which is really encouraging, and a great sign. Our major concern is Elijah’s welfare,” he said.
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Michael Gleeson is an award-winning senior sports writer specialising in AFL and athletics.Connect via X or email.
Jon Pierik is a sports journalist at The Age. He covers AFL and has won awards for his cricket and basketball writing.Connect via X or email.
