Former Fremantle Dockers forward Chris Mayne, after a notable 14-year AFL career, is preparing to embark on the next phase of his journey as he sets his sights on coaching. Having played for both Fremantle and Collingwood, including appearances in two grand finals, Mayne has been keeping busy since returning to Perth with his young family following the end of his playing career with Collingwood.
As Mayne explores the possibility of becoming a head coach, he’s keen to leverage his extensive experience in the AFL to guide and mentor a new generation of players. His journey back to Perth has been one of reflection and preparation, as he considers how best to transition from player to coach, with a deep passion for the sport continuing to drive him forward.
In another AFL development, the situation surrounding Melbourne Demons star Christian Petracca has sparked significant discussion within the football community. Leading AFL reporter Damien Barrett has been particularly critical of Petracca’s recent actions, labeling them as “delusional.” This follows Petracca’s attempts to engineer a trade away from the Demons, despite being under contract until 2029. Petracca’s efforts to leave were motivated by dissatisfaction with the club’s culture, and he had expressed a preference to join either Collingwood or Carlton in 2025.
However, despite Petracca’s desires, it quickly became apparent that a trade was never a realistic possibility due to the high cost associated with acquiring him. The Demons reportedly would have demanded a substantial number of draft picks in return, and the financial commitment required from a prospective new club made the deal unfeasible. Ultimately, Petracca and the Demons reached an agreement for him to remain with the team, putting an end to the speculation.
In a statement, Petracca addressed the rumors and confirmed his commitment to the Demons, emphasizing his dedication to improving the club and his love for the game. He explained that his recent actions were part of an end-of-year review process in which he expressed concerns as a leader, aiming to contribute positively to the team’s success both on and off the field.
Petracca’s public attempt to push for a trade, however, has been met with criticism from within the AFL community. Barrett, speaking on the Sunday Footy Show, suggested that Petracca’s decision to make his dissatisfaction so public was a mistake, given the improbability of any club being able to meet the demands of such a trade. Barrett highlighted the unrealistic nature of Petracca’s expectations, stating that the financial and draft pick implications made a move highly unlikely.
Barrett also speculated that Petracca may have realized the impracticality of the situation only after gauging the market, understanding that no club could afford to bring him over on his current lucrative deal, which extends through to 2029. This realization likely led to Petracca’s decision to stay with the Demons.
Further complicating matters, it has been reported that Petracca has been struggling with both physical and mental health issues, particularly following a serious injury sustained during a match against Collingwood. Petracca suffered broken ribs, a lacerated spleen, and a punctured lung, with his fiancée, Bella, being informed by doctors that his life was in danger. The aftermath of this traumatic experience, along with dissatisfaction within the club, reportedly contributed to Petracca’s desire for a fresh start.
However, some of Petracca’s teammates were unaware of the severity of his struggles, leading to frustration within the squad over his extended absences and time spent on holidays. This disconnect within the team may have further fueled Petracca’s discontent, but his public handling of the situation has drawn criticism for immaturity.
Kane Cornes, another commentator, echoed Barrett’s sentiments, questioning the rationale behind Petracca’s trade request, particularly given the unlikelihood of it being executed. Cornes pointed out that the whole situation seemed doomed from the start, suggesting that Petracca’s decision to pursue a trade was ill-advised.
In summary, while Chris Mayne is looking ahead to a potential coaching career after his successful playing days, Christian Petracca’s recent actions have generated significant controversy within the AFL community. Petracca’s public trade saga and the subsequent fallout have raised questions about his approach and decision-making, highlighting the challenges that can arise when players seek to move on from their current clubs.
