The acquisition of sharpshooting small forward Lachie Schultz was expected to have little impact on Collingwood’s Jack Ginnivan’s immediate future, but the small forward has reportedly demanded a move away from Olympic Park.
The maligned Magpie was considered as a major piece in the club’s plans for 2024 as they prepare to defend their title, with Ginnivan and others facing increased competition in Craig McRae’s offensive third with the arrival of Schultz.
Norm Smith Medal winner Bobby Hill ended his first season in the black and white on a high with a four-goal haul against the Lions in the grand final, while Jamie Elliott and Beau McCreery will also be vying for starting spots come Round 1 next year.
Ginnivan was brought into the starting side for the season decider after serving as the sub throughout September, with his place in the pecking order and Collingwood’s move for Schultz raising questions over a potential move this off-season.
The 20-year-old, who is under contract, wasn’t a player Collingwood had placed on the trade table at any point this trade period, with football boss Graham Wright saying on Monday that he isn’t fielding calls from potentially interested suitors.
Wright stated on Trade Radio that Ginnivan is a required player for 2024 and has not been tied to any player movement plans.
“I haven’t received any calls about it.” When asked about Ginnivan’s future, Wright stated, “We haven’t sought to take calls either.””From our standpoint, it hasn’t been an issue at all.” We regard Jack as an important element of what we’re doing. He has a contract for next year.
“We haven’t taken any calls at all.”
According to SEN’s Sam Edmund, “multiple clubs” believe Collingwood is open to dealing Ginnivan, with Hawthorn seen as a club interested in the young forward.
Ginnivan is set to meet with the Hawks as early as Tuesday, with Waverley likely trying to fill the vacancy left by Tyler Brockman’s departure to West Coast.
