Why Coleambally appearance could be Brett Deledio’s last game

Former AFL number one pick Brett Deledio could be set to play his final game of footy this weekend when he pulls on the boots in a country game. He discusses the emotion of what’s ahead.

Brett Deledio could play his last game of footy this weekend with Coleambally.

Brett Deledio has mixed emotions about his return to the footy field this weekend.

The former Richmond and GWS star will pull on the boots for Coleambally in NSW’s Farrer league and he knows it could be his last game.

“The nerves haven’t set in just yet but there’s a bit of excitement knowing this could be the last time I play,” he said.

“When I was still playing at the top level, I hoped I’d still be playing regularly at this age like Scott Pendlebury, Boomer Harvey and Shaun Burgoyne.

“Unfortunately the body just hasn’t been able to get there, the mind is still sharp but the issues I’ve had are pretty well known.”

During his AFL career, Deledio was best known for his run and carry with an ability to break the ground open by foot.

For this weekend’s game against the TRYC Magpies, he’s expecting to play deep forward.

Deledio’s appearance is part of the Carlton Draft which sends ex-AFL guns back to community footy for a one-off game.

And he will be handed a different experience to most with the Blues sitting fourth on the ladder.

In previous cases, many players are sent to clubs who have struggled to win games in recent years.

“I’ve had a chat to the coach and I’m happy to play anywhere,” he said.

“Deep forward is going to be a possible option especially with the body, hopefully we can kick a few goals.

“I’ve been keeping track of how they’ve been going, they’ve managed a few wins and it would be great to get another one on Saturday.

“My great mate Dylan Buckley played a couple of years ago and I’m determined to do better than he did.”

Brett Deledio with members of the Coleambally Football Club.

Deledio’s football resume includes 275 games, two All Australian selections and two Tigers best-and-fairest after being taken with pick one in the 2004 national draft.

Since his AFL retirement in 2019, Deledio has played a handful of local games for clubs including Devon Meadows and Tongala.

Plucked from the northern Victorian town of Kyabram, it seems fitting Lids’ final game will come in a small town in NSW.

“It’s a great concept for clubs who have sometimes been doing it tough,” Deledio said.

“Hopefully we can raise some good money and have a good day.”

Saturday shapes as a massive day for the Blues with the Blues to also celebrate their 60th anniversary.