In his fifth season at the club, Harry O’Brien has proven he is an integral part of the Collingwood back six. He was one of five Magpies to play in every match (25) and averaged a career-high in disposals (16.1) while maintaining his accuracy at 83.6%, the best at the club.
Once again O’Brien showed he can play on a range of opponents and effectively limit their impact during a game. His 2009 scalps included Adam Goodes, Daniel Bradshaw, Aaron Davey and Eddie Betts.
O’Brien electrified the crowd this season with five goals all kicked from outside the 50 metre arc. His long accurate kick forced his opponent to maintain a close eye on the defender when the Magpies moved the ball forward.
The 22-year-old came fourth in the Copeland Trophy which was his best result and his second-straight top-five finish (fifth in 2008).
He also received the Darren Millane Trophy for best clubman.
O’Brien has established himself as a supporter favourite through his desire to reach out to the fans with online social media. A member of Facebook and Twitter, the affable defender keeps supporters up to date with the latest happenings in his life.
With already 85 games under his belt, O’Brien will only continue to develop until he solidifies himself as one of the league’s best down back.
2009 highlights
Round 4 v Brisbane: After allowing nine first half goals to the home side, O’Brien and his teammates held the potent Brisbane attack to only one major after the main break. O’Brien blanketed Daniel Bradshaw for 88 minutes and held him goalless (Bradshaw was held goalless in only three matches this year). O’Brien also limited the forward's impact with Bradshaw picking up six possessions against him (the second lowest number of the year).
Round 15 v Western Bulldogs: The Brazilian was at his best in the one-point win which showcased the defender’s ability to play a number of roles in one game. O’Brien touched up Josh Hill, Jason Akermanis and Robert Murphy during the hard fought contest and only allowed one goal to slip through from Mitch Hahn in what was a high scoring game.
2009 AFL statistics
| G | K | H | D | M | G | B | T | C |
| 25 | 9.2/80.4% | 6.9/87.8% | 16.1/83.6% | 4.2 | 0.2 | 0.0 | 1.8 | 0.7 |
CTV
