Collingwood has extended a job offer to former defender Nathan Murphy, who recently retired from the AFL.
Murphy, who has been contending with persistent concussion issues since the 2023 Grand Final, has affirmed that he will be transitioning to an off-field position with Collingwood, expressing his desire to remain involved with the club. The 24-year-old, who accumulated 57 games before his retirement due to extensive head trauma, acknowledged the support from the club and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue contributing in a different capacity. Despite no longer being an active player, the premiership winner expressed his attachment to the football club and his reluctance to part ways with it.
“For me, it’s been less than a week and I already miss the boys. I did all this big farewell and I’ll be saying hello to them next week,” Murphy expressed.
“I just want to stay around this club, there are so many good people there that I’ve been so fortunate to meet. I don’t want to lose that yet.”
Regarding his potential role, Murphy is keen on pursuing coaching opportunities.
“I love my coaching so it’s a good chance for me to develop that as well,” he noted.
“The relief probably came when the panel retired me, I think deep down I knew it was the right thing for me.
“It’s been so nice, the amount of celebrations you’d think I’m a 200 game player. It’s carried on for a bit and I’ve carried on for a bit.”
However, alongside retirement comes challenges away from football.
“There’s ongoing headaches, migraines, panic attacks, anxiety. It is pretty full-on. It’s tough on the people around me,” Murphy revealed.
“I’m in the best hands. I’m very fortunate in this position where some people aren’t.”
The club’s gesture to compensate Murphy has garnered praise, especially considering they extended his contract earlier this year despite his impending retirement, aiming to alleviate pressure from his decision-making process and ensure his financial stability.
