The Player - A cult figure among the Magpie Army with his dreadlocks, goatee and burgeoning social media profile, O'Brien is highly valued by teammates and coaches alike. Plays with flair at half back, giving the Magpies ample drive with his run and creativity. Has helped fill the void created by James Clement's retirement with his ability to counter opponents both tall and short. Possesses a booming right foot and is potent when left in the clear when pushing up to half forward. Now a team leader, O'Brien looks to be entering his prime.
2011
Although he missed out on an All-Australian berth, O’Brien’s standards remained high in 2011. Averaged 17.5 disposals across 24 games, missing his first match (through a shoulder injury) since 2007 in round 20.
Had a career high 30 disposals in the tense qualifying final victory over West Coast, and was solid in the remaining two finals. Dropped from a season total of 62 tackles in 2010 to 43, and only managed one goal (down from six in 2010). Ended the year ranked eighth in the Copeland Trophy.
2010
Was touted as a potential All-Australian selection as early as round one after his demolition of the Western Bulldogs where he won 25 disposals and picked up the three Brownlow votes. His galloping runs off half back become more frequent than ever, and his cult status was well and truly established in the eyes of the Magpie Army.
Added the ability to land a telling blow from outside fifty to his repertoire, and it was a testament to his standing in the game when Adelaide youngster Will Young received plaudits (and a new TV from commentator Matthew Lloyd) for restricting him to five possessions in round 21.
Struggled in the drawn Grand Final but bounced back with a superb display in the replay triumph. Finished ninth in the Copeland Trophy and fulfilled the pre-season predictions when he was named in the All-Australian team.
2009
Went from good to great, producing another fine season in defence. O’Brien ran fourth in the Copeland Trophy, and received his first Darren Millane Trophy as best clubman. Was one of five players to play every game, and booted two important goals from long range in the finals.
2008
Continued from where he left off in 2007, running into some sterling form to eventually finish fifth in the Copeland Trophy. He dramatically increased his possession count (329, up from 246 in 2007) and became a senior figure in the Collingwood backline.
2007
Enjoyed a breakthrough season at half back, playing 23 of a possible 25 games and visibly improving in confidence and conviction with each week. His rebound and daring caught his opponents off guard, and while supporters initially had their hearts in their mouths, his attacking flair quickly became his trademark.
Missed two games mid-season after colliding with a goal post in the loss to Melbourne, but returned in round 14 to begin a stretch of 106 games without a miss. Enjoyed a solid finals campaign and finished in the top 10 of the Copeland Trophy for the first time (ninth).
2006
Spent the season yo-yoing between the senior and rookie lists. Was quickly promoted to the senior list – and straight into the senior team – when Sean Rusling was placed on the long term injury-list. Played all games between rounds two and seven before returning to the rookie list after round seven.
Was again promoted back to the senior list when Blake Caracella was moved onto the long-term injury list after round 10. Returned from a six week stint in the VFL to travel to Port Adelaide in round 20, but his year was finished for good when he broke his leg.
2005
Began the season in the Williamstown reserves, progressing to their senior team in round six of the VFL against Bendigo. Earned a chance for Collingwood late in the season when promoted from the rookie list, and managed four games late in the season.
Debuted in round 18 against Fremantle and didn’t look out of place in defence. Kicked a team lifting goal the following week against the Kangaroos when running down the ground. Returned to the rookie list at the end of the season.
2004
Represented Western Australia at the National U18 Championships mid-year, but was not selected in the National Draft. He refused to give up on his dream, and phoned Collingwood’s football department and offered to pay his own way in return for a chance to train with the squad prior to the December drafts.
His ambition paid off when he was chosen by Collingwood with their second (and 20th overall) selection in the Rookie Draft.
Debut
Round 18 2005 v Fremantle at the MCG.
Milestones
- 50th Game - Round 14 2008 v Sydney at Sydney Olympic Stadium.
- 100th Game - Round 15 2010 v Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.
Draft History
2004 AFL Rookie Draft 2nd round selection (Collingwood) pick 20 overall); 2006 rookie elevation (Collingwood).
