New Demon Brodie Grundy says he’d always hoped to be a Magpie life, but now concedes it’s “time to dream a different dream” after he was traded with five years left on his Collingwood deal.
Grundy, a dual All-Australian and dual Magpies best and fairest winner, on Tuesday was traded to Melbourne, which gave the Magpies Pick 27 and agreed to take on the majority of the ruckman’s salary.
It means Grundy will join forces with Dees skipper Max Gawn and form a dynamic ruck duo, with Gawn expected to spent more time closer to goal.
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In a heartfelt statement posted on his personal social media channels, Grundy said he’d always intended to remain at Collingwood, despite the array of trade whispers surrounding his future.
“When I was drafted to the Collingwood Football Club in 2012, I felt proud to be a Collingwood player. When I signed my contract in 2020, my dream was to be a Pie for life,” Grundy wrote.
“My desire to remain at Collingwood did not change this year. However, after recent conversations with the club, this dream could no longer be a reality.
“Thank you to my teammates who have made my time at Collingwood so special. Over the 10 years, we’ve gone from teammates, to mates, to family.
“And thank you, to the Magpie Army for the unconditional love and support you’ve shown me over the past decade, it has made my time at Collingwood infinitely better.
“Signing with Melbourne Football Club today, I am deeply committed to my new club. I’m looking forward to the contribution I can make to Melbourne and their fans in 2023 and beyond.
“Time to dream a different dream and get to work ahead of the season.”
Grundy played 177 matches and kicked 60 majors for the Magpies.
“Brodie has been an outstanding club person in his time with Collingwood and he should be commended for his professionalism and the support he’s shown to his teammates despite facing his own injury challenges this season,” Pies football manager Graham Wright said.
“We have remained in open and honest discussions with Brodie for some time now around his future – he is a quality person and leaves our football program with everyone wishing him all the very best.
Four team MEGA-TRADE for JHF! | 01:53
“While decision-making relating to list management can be difficult, we have a duty to make decisions that best positions our club moving forward.”
Demons list boss Tim Lamb said his club was thrilled to acquire a player of Grundy’s talent and standing.
“We are ecstatic to have secured the services of Brodie, it’s not often you can bring such a talented player into the club,” Lamb said.
“Brodie has had an outstanding career to date, and is a proven finals performer. We have seen from afar what he is capable of.
