Fans Crave for Their Voices to Be Heard and Jamie Should Be Given a Contract He Deserves
When you talk about modern-day Collingwood heroes, Jamie Elliott’s name echoes loudly among the faithful. The high-flying forward, who has given Magpies fans countless moments of joy, loyalty, and inspiration, now finds himself at the center of a contract storm. Reports have revealed that Collingwood’s current offer to Elliott stands at $425,000 per year across two seasons. On the surface, that may look like a fair deal for a player entering the twilight of his career at 33. But dig a little deeper, and a fiery debate emerges: is Elliott being undervalued, and should Collingwood be doing more to ensure he remains in black and white until his last kick?
For the fans, the answer is clear. They want their voices heard, and they believe Jamie Elliott deserves a contract that reflects not just his statistics, but his legacy.
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The Offer and the Controversy
According to AFL reporter Jon Ralph, Elliott’s offer sits below the AFL’s average wage of $500,000 per season. That gap is sparking conversation. For a player who kicked 60 goals this year—including four across both finals—it feels strange to many that his offer isn’t even at the average wage line.
Supporters argue that Elliott’s consistency and ability to deliver in big moments should command more. At an age where many players fade, he has maintained an elite standard, continuing to be Collingwood’s go-to match-winner when the game is in the balance. Yet the Pies, with their eyes on salary cap management and younger talent, appear hesitant to stretch beyond $425,000 a year.
This is where fans’ frustration grows. Elliott is more than numbers—he’s an embodiment of the Magpies’ fighting spirit.
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Jamie Elliott: More Than Just Goals
Elliott’s journey has been anything but smooth. Multiple injuries earlier in his career forced him to miss large chunks of football, yet he never gave up. He worked his way back, season after season, to reclaim his place and prove his worth. That resilience turned him into more than a footballer—he became a symbol of perseverance for the Magpies’ army.
Every hanger he’s taken, every clutch goal he’s kicked, and every finals performance has made him a player that Collingwood fans emotionally connect with. When Elliott runs out on the MCG, supporters don’t just see number five—they see hope.
That connection cannot be measured solely in financial spreadsheets. To the Collingwood faithful, Elliott is priceless.
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The Gold Coast Threat
Adding to the drama is the reported interest from the Gold Coast Suns. A young, ambitious club looking for proven veterans to guide their next generation, Gold Coast sees Elliott as the perfect fit. His experience, goal-kicking prowess, and leadership could be invaluable for their push up the ladder.
If Collingwood doesn’t adjust its offer, the Suns could swoop. And the thought of Elliott wearing another jumper is something many Magpie fans can hardly stomach. Imagine one of Collingwood’s most beloved figures finishing his career away from the Magpie nest—it would be heartbreaking.
For fans, the fear is simple: are the Pies about to repeat the mistakes of the past by letting a heart-and-soul player walk?
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The Emotional Value vs. The Business Reality
From a club perspective, there is a balance to strike. Collingwood, like all AFL clubs, must juggle contracts, manage salary caps, and prepare for the future. Players such as Nick Daicos, Josh Daicos, and Isaac Quaynor represent the next generation, and they too must be rewarded.
But here’s the catch: football isn’t just business—it’s built on passion. The AFL thrives because fans feel connected to their clubs and their heroes. And Jamie Elliott is a hero. Offering him below the average wage, after such a standout season, risks sending the wrong message: that loyalty and leadership don’t carry the weight they should.
This is why fans are raising their voices. They want Collingwood to recognize Elliott’s true worth—not just as a player, but as a leader and inspiration.
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A Season to Remember
If there were ever a season to justify a better contract, this was it. Elliott kicked 60 goals across the year, an extraordinary return for a 33-year-old forward. He didn’t just pad the stats; he influenced games, dragged his team over the line, and stood tall in finals pressure.
His four goals across two finals highlighted his ability to shine when it matters most. Finals football separates the good from the great, and Elliott once again reminded everyone why he belongs in the latter category.
Fans look at those performances and ask: how can a man who continues to deliver at the highest stage be offered less than the average wage?
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The Fans’ Perspective
Walk into the Collingwood cheer squad, and you’ll hear one message loud and clear: “Pay Jamie what he deserves.” Supporters know that football isn’t forever. Careers fade, champions retire, and eras close. But when it comes to players like Elliott, they want the journey to end where it began—in black and white.
The fans crave recognition for their loyalty too. They’ve stood by the club through highs and lows, and part of that bond is watching players they love finish their careers as one-club players. Letting Elliott leave for a slightly higher offer elsewhere would feel like a betrayal—not just to him, but to them.
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What Should Happen Next?
Collingwood’s management now stands at a crossroads. Do they stick with the $425,000 offer, confident Elliott will accept out of love for the club? Or do they bridge the gap, show goodwill, and meet somewhere closer to the $500,000 mark?
The smart move seems obvious: extend the offer. Meeting Elliott halfway is more than a financial decision—it’s a symbolic gesture. It tells fans that loyalty is rewarded, that champions are respected, and that Collingwood stands for more than just balance sheets.
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Legacy on the Line
Contracts come and go, but legacies last forever. Jamie Elliott’s legacy at Collingwood is already secure, but how the club handles his final years will shape the story. Will he be remembered as a one-club legend who was valued until the end? Or will his departure mirror the heartbreak of other stars lost too soon?
Collingwood prides itself on tradition, loyalty, and passion. This is their chance to live up to that.
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Conclusion
At the heart of this issue lies one simple truth: fans want their voices to be heard. They believe Jamie Elliott deserves a contract that reflects his value—not just as a goal scorer, but as a symbol of Collingwood’s spirit.
Offering him below the AFL’s average wage feels like an injustice. After 60 goals, four finals goals, and a season that reminded everyone of his brilliance, Elliott deserves more.
For Collingwood, the decision is about more than money. It’s about respect, loyalty, and legacy. And for the fans, it’s about ensuring their hero gets the ending he has earned.
Pay Jamie what he deserves—because sometimes, football is bigger than business.
