The AFL off-season has been nothing short of brutal, leaving fans and players alike wondering: Is the game becoming too demanding for its own good? Collingwood’s Jeremy Howe, a seasoned premiership defender, believes the relentless increase in workload and intensity of AFL programs might be the culprit behind the recent wave of injuries. But here’s where it gets controversial: could the pursuit of that extra 5-10% edge be pushing players beyond their limits?
Collingwood has been particularly hard-hit, with key players like Howe himself (calf), Darcy Moore (calf), and Dan McStay (hamstring) sidelined by soft tissue injuries. And they’re not alone. North Melbourne’s Jackson Archer, Carlton’s Jesse Motlop (both ACL), Hawthorn’s Will Day, Melbourne’s Max Gawn, and GWS stars Toby Greene and Clayton Oliver have all fallen victim to the off-season carnage. This raises a critical question: Are AFL programs prioritizing performance over player longevity?
Howe, speaking on SEN radio, didn’t hold back. “The game is not getting any easier,” he stated bluntly. He highlighted the growing demands on players, from more intense fitness regimes to longer seasons. “Guys are working harder than ever,” he explained. “High-intensity running and rigorous game plans are the norm now. Even someone as disciplined as Scott Pendlebury would struggle to play 400 games if he faced today’s pre-season demands.”
And this is the part most people miss: the off-season isn’t a break—it’s an extension of the grind. Players are expected to maintain peak fitness during the Christmas break, with no room for slacking. “If you fall behind, it’s almost impossible to catch up,” Howe warned. While Collingwood’s program is top-notch, the trust placed in players to manage their own training can be a double-edged sword. “There’s no hand-holding,” Howe added. “You’re on your own, and the pressure to return ready is immense.”
Despite the injuries, Howe remains optimistic about Collingwood’s pre-season progress. “There’s a buzz of optimism,” he said. “Everyone’s fit and ready for the practice games just around the corner. Match simulations start soon, and that’s when the real excitement begins.” The Pies kick off their season against St Kilda on March 8 at the MCG, and Howe is confident they’ll be firing on all cylinders.
But let’s circle back to the controversy: Is the AFL’s pursuit of excellence unsustainable? Are we sacrificing player health for marginal gains? Howe’s insights spark a debate that goes beyond Collingwood’s injury list. What do you think? Is the AFL pushing players too hard, or is this the price of staying competitive? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
