Rocked by the first-goal betting scandal, the man at the centre of attention currently holds one of the proudest positions in the AFL world. Although regretful for his actions and pleading ignorance, is it in Collingwood’s interest for Maxwell to stand down as captain at the conclusion of the season?
Appointed captain following the 2008 season, Maxwell has long been held in higher regard for his leadership than his playing abilities.
Originally rookie-listed by the Magpies in 2002, Maxwell has been applauded internally at the club, by the media, and by supporters for his maturity and commitment to the ball. A hard-nosed defender who established himself at both ends of the ground, Maxwell has established significant good will within the AFL community.
This may have influenced the comparatively light penalty he received from the AFL for his participation in the betting scandal.
With a history of immature and reckless behaviour, teammate Heath Shaw was not given such leniency.
When questioned as to whether the AFL considered suspending Maxwell for his role in the scandal, Adrian Anderson was quick to admit taking into account Maxwell’s “honesty in admitting these offences at an early opportunity, and foregoing his right to a Tribunal hearing.”
Also taken into consideration by Anderson was “The fact that Maxwell was not aware and never intended for the information to be used for betting purposes.”
As with all men of integrity, Maxwell has accepted complete responsibility for his actions, taking the blame for his family members, and reinforced the importance of the AFL’s stance against sharing insider information.
Upon being questioned on whether the Collingwood Football Club would consider stripping Maxwell of the Captaincy, President Eddie McGuire responded with a stern “no”.
Captain of the league’s largest club, mentor to young players, role model to some and black and white by blood, Nick Maxwell at some point during these recent days may have contemplated relinquishing the captaincy.
Understanding the club better than most, Maxwell would be aware of the trickledown effect in terms of the Collingwood Football Club moving forward beyond his reign.
The current season has been shadowed by contract discussions, Greater Western Sydney, and the ongoing Mick Malthouse saga. At the age of 28, the implications of Maxwell standing down would strengthen contract negotiations with Scott Pendlebury next year if he is offered the position of successor to Maxwell as most pundits predict.
The affect of a new captain may potentially alter the team dynamic which incoming coach Nathan Buckley will be keen to take control of. Maxwell has established a lengthy career under Malthouse, whose leadership and values would be reflected through Maxwell.
If Buckley wishes to stamp his authority on the club, a new coach-captain pair would fast-track development into a new culture. This would be one way to prove there is no lingering Malthouse influence.
While a professional of Maxwell’s calibre will have no intentions of disrupting the club’s focus leading into finals, it is likely the possibility of standing down as captain will have crossed his mind.
Although an integral part of Collingwood’s defence, Maxwell does not fall into the same age group as the majority of their playing list, who are aged between 20 and 26. In the coming years, if Maxwell’s performance declines, his place in the team could be in jeopardy.
A turbulent Collingwood off-season is in the making and the betting scandal is likely to take a toll on Maxwell psychologically.
Collingwood will not strip him of the captaincy but a man of his intelligence and integrity will know when the time comes to stand down from one of football’s most honoured positions.
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