Ned Long faced rejection from 17 AFL clubs, including Collingwood, after his stint with Hawthorn. Despite his talent and determination, he was left without a team willing to give him a chance. Long recounted the tough period following his departure from Hawthorn, saying,
“It was really tough… I did message every club.”
His manager also reached out to clubs on his behalf but to no avail.
Long’s dream of continuing in the AFL seemed bleak as he struggled to secure even a training opportunity with any of the clubs. Disheartened by the lack of interest, he shifted his focus to exploring options in the VFL (Victorian Football League). Eventually, Collingwood emerged as a potential new home for him under the guidance of VFL coach Josh Fraser.
Reflecting on his pursuit of opportunities with AFL clubs, Long revealed that there were no positive responses from any of them. The experience was disheartening for him. He said,
“It was pretty rough… You’re asking for the littlest opportunity and you can’t get it.”
However, Long’s perseverance paid off when Collingwood recognized his potential and offered him a chance to prove himself in their ranks. Fast forward to today, Long has become an integral part of Collingwood’s lineup, delivering standout performances that have caught the attention of fans and experts alike.
His exceptional display on the field has solidified his position as a key player for Collingwood. In a recent game against North Melbourne, Long set records with remarkable stats like 15 score involvements and over 14 tackles in a single match—a feat that drew praise from coach Nathan Buckley who predicted a bright future for him.
Expert analysis reveals that Long’s success stems from his relentless work ethic and unique playing style as a defensive-minded midfielder. Despite facing initial setbacks at Hawthorn due to stiff competition in midfield positions, Long’s transition to Collingwood proved to be transformative for his career.
Brett Munro, an AFL player agent and former coach who worked with Long during his junior years alongside close friend Josh Ward, highlighted Long’s exceptional attributes. Munro described him as “the hardest worker” with outstanding running capabilities—a quality that sets him apart on the field.
Long’s journey serves as an inspiration for young players striving to make their mark in professional football. His story is a testament to resilience and unwavering dedication leading to success despite early rejections. Today, Ned Long stands tall as proof that hard work and persistence truly pay off in the world of Australian Rules Football.
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