Collingwood’s CEO, Craig Kelly, anticipates that Jack Ginnivan, a traded premiership player, will be eager to compete against his former team in the upcoming season. Kelly, however, refutes the notion that Ginnivan’s night out at the races on the eve of the grand final played a role in his departure.
Ginnivan is set to start pre-season training with Hawthorn after a surprising trade last month, prompted by Collingwood’s acquisition of Lachie Schultz from Fremantle. Ginnivan’s last year at Collingwood was marked by several controversies, including a suspension for drug use and his attendance at the Moonee Valley races just before the grand final. Despite Magpies coach Craig McRae’s critical comments, Kelly insists that Ginnivan’s night out was not the primary reason for his departure, emphasizing the need to avoid baseless speculation.
Ginnivan’s first match against his former club will be a compelling storyline in the 2024 season. Kelly, a former player agent, praises the way Collingwood handled the trade, aiming for transparency with supporters, players, and staff.
Regarding the decision to release Kelly’s son, Will, after five seasons on the list, Kelly acknowledges the difficulty of the decision but trusts the judgment of the club’s leadership. He hopes Will will find a new opportunity with another club and sees it as a fresh start for him.
Collingwood recently unveiled their premiership cup tour across Australia, allowing fans to continue celebrating their victory. The senior players will commence pre-season training in December, and the club aims to shift focus from celebrations to the task at hand—defending their premiership title. Kelly mentions various changes in the coaching and fitness setups, as well as upgrades to the training facility, all contributing to the club’s professional growth and preparation for the upcoming season.
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