In a move that has sent shockwaves through the AFL community and left Collingwood Magpies fans reeling, beloved forward Jamie Elliott made a stunning and emotional announcement this morning during a surprise press conference at AIA Centre in Olympic Park. With teary eyes and a heavy voice, Elliott declared, “It is done.”
The phrase quickly became a trending hashtag across social media, as Elliott revealed a major decision that left his teammates in disbelief and rendered head coach Craig McRae momentarily speechless.
Jamie Elliott Officially Announces Retirement from AFL
After 13 decorated seasons with the Collingwood Football Club, Jamie Elliott, 32, has announced his retirement from professional Australian Rules Football, effective immediately. The high-flying forward, known for his spectacular marks, clutch goals, and resilience through injury, said his body and heart have “both spoken” — and he is ready to move on from the game that has defined his adult life.
“I’ve poured everything into this guernsey,” Elliott said, standing beside his mother and longtime Collingwood teammates. “Every mark, every kick, every comeback from injury — it was all for the black and white. But today, I know in my heart that it’s time. It is done.”
A Shocking Decision — Even to the Club
The timing of the announcement caught everyone off guard, especially Coach Craig McRae, who was visibly emotional during Elliott’s speech. Following the conference, McRae told reporters he had “no idea” the announcement was coming.
“Jamie’s been training hard, smiling, motivating the boys as always,” McRae said. “We had absolutely no indication this was around the corner. When he said ‘It is done,’ I honestly didn’t know what he meant. I thought maybe it was a joke. But then I looked in his eyes and saw the truth. I’m stunned. Gutted, honestly.”
A Career Defined by Resilience
Jamie Elliott’s AFL journey was one of passion, perseverance, and overcoming adversity. After debuting in 2012, Elliott quickly built a reputation as one of the game’s most electrifying forwards. But his career was far from smooth — it was punctuated by a series of serious injuries that would’ve ended most athletes’ careers.
From his 2016 and 2017 seasons lost to back and ankle injuries, to his triumphant return in 2018, Elliott constantly pushed through pain barriers, determined to give the Magpies everything he had. In 2022, he famously kicked the game-winning goal after the siren against Essendon, a moment that became an instant AFL classic.
Over 13 seasons, Elliott played 192 games and kicked 291 goals, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched into Collingwood folklore.
Tributes Flood In From Across the AFL
Within minutes of the announcement, tributes began pouring in from current and former players, AFL clubs, and fans across the country.
- Scott Pendlebury, former Collingwood captain, called Elliott “a warrior who wore his heart on his sleeve.”
- Buddy Franklin tweeted: “Respect to Jamie Elliott. One of the toughest forwards I’ve seen. Enjoy retirement, mate.”
- The AFL Players Association released a statement calling Elliott’s career “a testament to resilience, professionalism, and heart.”
Even long-time rival Dustin Martin of the Richmond Tigers sent a video message: “Jamie, you were a nightmare to play against. Mad respect. You’ve earned every second of peace ahead.”
A New Chapter: Elliott’s Next Move
While Elliott confirmed his retirement from playing, he hinted at a major new chapter that left fans intrigued. Without giving too much away, Elliott said:
“This isn’t the end. I’ve got something big lined up. Something that still connects me to the game, but in a very different way.”
Sources close to Elliott revealed he is in early talks with multiple organizations about potential media roles, motivational speaking, and even coaching. One insider noted that Fox Footy and Channel Seven have both expressed interest in securing Elliott as a post-game analyst or special commentator, citing his charisma, insight, and loyal fan base.
Others believe Elliott may be eyeing a player welfare role or even an off-field position with Collingwood, helping mentor young players and guide them through the psychological challenges of professional sport.
The Emotional Response from Fans
The Collingwood faithful — arguably the most passionate supporters in the AFL — took to social media in droves to express their emotions. From heartfelt tributes to artwork and montages, fans celebrated the career of their “Flyin’ Jamie.”
“We’ll never forget that mark against Carlton, the goal against Essendon, the comebacks, the courage. Jamie Elliott is forever a Magpie legend,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
In response, the club announced it will host a special “Jamie Elliott Tribute Round” during their next home game at the MCG, where Elliott will be honored before the first bounce. There are also plans for a limited-edition guernsey release, with proceeds going toward youth mental health programs — a cause close to Elliott’s heart.
Coach McRae: “He Leaves a Hole You Can’t Replace”
As the dust settles on this emotional day, Coach McRae admitted that replacing Elliott will not be easy.
“There are players who kick goals. There are players who take hangers. And then there are players who lift a team with their presence alone — Jamie was all three,” McRae said. “He leaves a hole you simply cannot replace. But we will move forward, inspired by what he gave us.”
McRae also hinted that the club may soon offer Elliott a “special role within the Magpies family,” although he stopped short of confirming any formal position.
Legacy Beyond the Game
Beyond the goals and the highlights, Jamie Elliott’s influence stretched far wider. He has been a vocal advocate for mental health, often speaking candidly about his battles with depression and injury recovery. He supported numerous youth charities and helped launch “Kickstart Futures,” a non-profit aimed at helping disadvantaged kids find purpose through sport.
In many ways, Elliott’s retirement isn’t a goodbye — it’s a graduation. From celebrated athlete to public figure, mentor, and advocate.
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