Unwilling Villain Brayden Maynard Ready for 200th Game

Brayden Maynard has never shied away from the physicality of AFL football. But the Melbourne defender admits he has had to adjust to being cast as the game’s pantomime villain. With his relentless tackling and intimidating presence, Maynard has become one of the most recognizable – and polarizing – figures in the league. But as he prepares to play his 200th game this weekend, he says he is ready to embrace the role. “I know I’ve got a reputation for being a bit of a pest,” he said with a wry smile. “But I’m just playing my game. I’m not trying to hurt anyone, I just want to win. “I think the way I play can sometimes rub people up the wrong way, but that’s okay. I’m not going to change who I am. I’m just going to keep playing my own game and hopefully, I can help Melbourne win some more matches.” Maynard’s journey to 200 games has been anything but straightforward. He was drafted by Collingwood with pick No. 16 in the 2010 draft but was traded to Melbourne at the end of 2015. He has since become an integral part of the Demons’ backline, playing a key role in their drought-breaking premiership in 2021. “It’s been a bit of a crazy ride, to be honest,” he said. “I’ve been through some tough times, but I’ve also had some amazing experiences. “To play 200 games is a huge honor. It’s something I never thought I would achieve. I’m so grateful to my family and friends, and to the Melbourne Football Club for giving me this opportunity.” Maynard will become the 11th Demon to play 200 games since the club was readmitted to the AFL in 1995. He is also only the second player from the 2010 draft class to reach the milestone, after Collingwood’s Jack Crisp. “It’s a special club,” he said. “We’ve got a rich history and a passionate fan base. I’m just proud to be a part of it.” Melbourne will be hoping Maynard can help them continue their strong start to the season when they take on the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium on Saturday night. The Demons are currently sitting in second place on the ladder with a 5-1 record. Maynard is confident they can continue their winning ways and challenge for this year’s premiership. “We’ve got a good group of players and we’re all working hard for each other,” he said. “We know we’re capable of beating anyone on our day. “We’re not getting ahead of ourselves, but we’re definitely confident that we can be a force to be reckoned with this season.”Brayden Maynard, the esteemed defender for the Collingwood Magpies, has carved a formidable reputation in the Australian Football League (AFL). Despite facing hostility from opposing fans, he remains a beloved figure within the Magpies community.Brayden Maynard, the esteemed defender for the Collingwood Magpies, has carved a formidable reputation in the Australian Football League (AFL). Despite facing hostility from opposing fans, he remains a beloved figure within the Magpies community. Maynard’s journey to his 200th game has been marked by unwavering competitiveness and a willingness to embrace his role as a hard-hitting defender. His uncompromising style has earned him both respect and disdain, with fans of rival teams often expressing their disapproval. However, Maynard remains unfazed by the criticism, emphasizing that his only true concern is the opinions of his teammates and club. He draws strength from the unwavering support he receives within the Collingwood organization. Maynard’s aggressive demeanor on the field contrasts starkly with his gentle nature off it. He attributes his success to the careful balance he maintains between his two distinct personas. Away from the game, he sees himself as a “big, gentle giant,” but when he crosses the white line, he transforms into a formidable opponent. As Maynard prepares for his milestone game, he hopes to have the support of rising star Nick Daicos, who is currently nursing a corked shin. Daicos, an exceptional midfielder, is vital to the Magpies’ success, and Maynard believes his presence would add an extra spark to the occasion. Maynard’s remarkable journey exemplifies the dual nature of elite sport. He has navigated the challenges posed by opposition fans with grace and determination, proving that it is possible to maintain a fierce competitive spirit while fostering genuine camaraderie within one’s own team.Brayden Maynard, the unwilling villain of the Western Bulldogs, is set to play his 200th game this weekend. Maynard was booed by his own fans after his errant elbow left Max King concussed in last year’s elimination final. But the 25-year-old said he had learned from the experience and was ready to embrace the challenge of playing in front of a hostile crowd. “It was a tough moment, but it’s something that I’ve learned from and grown from,” Maynard said. “I’m not going to let it define me as a player or a person.” Maynard said he was grateful for the support of his teammates and coaches, and was determined to repay their faith in him. “I’m just going to go out there and play my game,” he said. “I’m not going to change anything. I’m just going to go out there and do my best.” Maynard is likely to play on a wing against the Gold Coast Suns at Metricon Stadium on Sunday. The Bulldogs will be hoping for a strong performance from Maynard, who has been a key part of their defence in recent years. Maynard has played 199 games for the Bulldogs since making his debut in 2015. He has been a member of the Bulldogs’ leadership group since 2020.