Watch Shane O'Bree speak to the media at the airport Collingwoodfc.com.au sat down with Collingwood veteran midfielder Shane O’Bree ahead of his 200th club match.
When you arrived at Collingwood after two seasons with Brisbane, did you ever think you would be running through the team banner celebrating your 200th game?
No, not really. While there was a fair bit of hype surrounding my arrival to Brisbane (No. 10 overall in the 1999 draft) my main goal was to play my first senior game. I got the chance early in round two and played seven games in my first season with Brisbane. After my first season I guess my only milestones I was focused on was playing 50 games, then 100 and now here I am at 200. To play 200 games with Collingwood is an accomplishment I will always cherish.
Is it strange to play your 200th CFC game against the club you started your career with?
It is very weird considering I also played my 100th club game against them (Brisbane). I was very thankful to receive an opportunity to move back down to Victoria after I was out of contract in Brisbane. To have established myself at Collingwood is a big personal accomplishment.
What’s your greatest Collingwood moment?
It has to be the 2002 preliminary final against Adelaide. I can still remember the atmosphere as we were running out on the ground. To get that win was an amazing experience.
What about your performance against West Coast in the second semi-final? Surely that has to be a close second.
That’s definitely on par with the Adelaide match. I had probably my best personal game in that match (29 disposals, eight marks, seven tackles) but the prelim against the Crows was special.
What is your proudest accomplishment of your career?
The opportunity to play in two grand finals is something I will always remember. Hopefully I get the chance to play in another one and win it.
What was the toughest moment during your career?
Thankfully I haven’t had too many injuries and I haven’t been scrutinised by the media during my career. Like any job, mentally you go through stages where you are a bit flat but never had I had enough or thought it was over.
Who has been your biggest support within the club?
Mick (Malthouse) has had a massive influence over my career since day one. He was the key reason I came over to Collingwood. I have huge respect for him and will always appreciate what he has done for me.
How much longer can you see yourself playing footy?
Mentally I have never been better. I am more passionate now than I have ever been in my career. The team we have now has got the most amount of potential I have ever seen. It’s exciting to play with these guys and I can’t wait to see how this season goes.
Thanks Shane and good luck on Friday.
Thanks Jono.
