In the high-stakes world of AFL, Collingwood’s roster has sparked heated debates. While critics argue their veteran-heavy lineup spells trouble, others believe experience could be their greatest asset.
The Age Argument: A Double-Edged Sword
Detractors claim Collingwood’s squad is simply too old to compete at peak levels. The physical demands of modern AFL favour younger, faster players, and an ageing team risks being outpaced.
Why Age Might Not Be the Real Issue
However, focusing solely on age overlooks key factors. Collingwood’s core players boast unmatched game IQ, leadership, and clutch performance under pressure—intangibles that stats can’t measure.
Tactical Depth Over Youthful Energy
Their coaching staff has built systems that maximise veterans’ strengths while mitigating wear-and-tear. Strategic rotations and position-specific roles keep older players impactful.
The Injury Wildcard
The real concern isn’t age itself but injury resilience. An older squad must manage workloads meticulously to avoid breakdowns during the gruelling season.
What History Tells Us
Past premiership teams prove experienced cores can triumph. The 2023 finals showed Collingwood’s veterans delivering when it mattered most—suggesting their best football still lies ahead.
As the season unfolds, Collingwood’s age profile will remain under scrutiny. But writing them off based on birth certificates alone would be a grave miscalculation.
