News that high flying Adelaide Crow and AFLPA President Brett Burton is to retire at season’s end brought a broad smile to my face.
Now no, I’m not being mean spirited towards the universally respected ‘Birdman’ who leads the AFL Players’ Association with such conviction.
I’m smiling because news of Brett’s impending retirement brings to top of mind the truly wonderful way Brett goes about his football.
Off the field, Brett is the text book definition of well rounded. He’s a dedicated family man who likes nothing more than spending time with his family. He’s also completed an Honour’s Degree in Sports Science and is involved in a sports science based health and fitness club in Adelaide.
And on the field, ‘Burts’ is dubbed the ‘human highlight reel’ for good reason.
With a talent for the extraordinary, the ‘Birdman’ is part of that rare group of players who you go to the footy to watch, regardless of your own personal club allegiances.
Older football people often talk about watching greats such as ‘Jezza’, Peter Knights or Trevor Barker take huge screamers. Such moments are of such rare magnificence that they stick with you. They become part of the culture.
Well Burts is a part of that shared tapestry.
Who can forget his 2009 Round 22 AFL Mark of the Year at Etihad Stadium against Carlton which saw Brett soar upwards and upwards taking the most spectacular of marks.
But the show reel of Brett’s career doesn’t just feature highlights. There’s shade alongside the light. Rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in early 2008 after kicking four goals in a half against Collingwood, in a year he was coming out of contract, was one of those dark moments.
But as with any person of substance, Burts didn’t let such setbacks define him.
In his typically professional and methodical manner, Burts created a rehab plan that left nothing to chance in his efforts to return to football.
This commitment to preparation was rewarded when Brett kicked four goals in a best on ground performance on his return to football via his SANFL club Woodville-West Torrens. Burts then went on to kick four goals in his second game back at AFL level in a huge game against cross town rivals Port Adelaide.
In amongst all of this, earlier this year Brett was elected AFLPA President. With characteristic vigour and intelligence, Burts has taken this extra responsibility in his incredibly athletic stride.
A player advocate of the highest quality, Brett will continue to lead the players’ association in a style respected by all.
All players are set to further benefit from Brett’s dedication when as President he leads our impending Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations with the AFL.
And typically, Brett has not put his hand up for a ‘gift’ 2010 season farewell game. He’s decided to go back to the SANFL and earn an AFL game.
For me, that’s the mark of the man.
Matthew Finnis is the Chief Executive Officer of the AFL Players’ Association.
