On Thursday night former Collingwood champion and coach-in-waiting Nathan Buckley was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame.
A few of Buckley’s former teammates paid tribute to him following his induction.
Simon Prestigiacomo
It was a great honour to play with such a champion of the club. Having witnessed the way he approached footy, and the way he did everything off the field, I can completely understand why he had so much success.
He was so intense with the way he did everything off the field, and it transferred to the way he played. He was just a gun.
Maybe it’s why I never had too many possessions, because Bucks hogged them all. When he retired, I think my possession rate went up one or two, which was nice.
Paul Licuria
When I first got to the footy club, I’ve never seen a guy train as hard as he played, like Bucks did, which was great inspiration for me.
In all my years of footy, I haven’t seen a player have such an influence on a team on game day. His ability was absolutely amazing, and he inspired us all on the field.
I will say this, though, I was lucky enough to win two Copeland Trophies, but it should’ve been four, but Bucks’ was the coaches favourite and took all the votes.
He always would try and challenge me in the gym, to see who could have the biggest arms. I think I had him covered.
Anthony Rocca
I was privileged to play with one of the best players of all time. Bucks won the ball himself, and his skills were the best I’ve seen as a player. His determination and endeavour to win every single contest no matter whether it was playing or at training, was second to none.
He wanted to win in everything he did. That’s indicative of how he went about his football, and how he’ll go about his coaching as well.
There were a few times at Victoria Park where he thought he’d join in long kicking competitions with Sav and I. We’d stand in the goal square and boot balls into the middle of the ground. He fancied himself as a long kick, but he never really came that close to us.
Tarkyn Lockyer
Getting inducted is obviously a terrific honour for Nathan, and well deserved. At the footy club I’ve never seen a more professional player, and I’ve never seen a player get the best out of himself like Nathan has.
As far as setting by example, and leading by example, he was the best.
The thing about Bucks was that you had to give him the ball or risk copping a fearful spray. If you think Mick can hand out a spray, you should’ve seen Bucks.
But in all seriousness, he is an ornament to the game and an absolute champion.
