Eddie McGuire’s son Joe makes college football debut for Ohio State Buckeyes

Just when the McGuire family thought Joe’s dream US college football debut couldn’t get any better, a coincidental Collingwood connection made the moment even sweeter.

Joe McGuire in his playing kit for Ohio State. Picture: Supplied

Eddie McGuire’s son Joe made his college football debut as a punter in a jumper that holds special significance for the family.

Joe stepped out for the Ohio State Buckeyes on Sunday wearing no.42 — which was the number made famous by Collingwood’s late 1990 premiership hero Darren Millane.

It was a complete coincidence which made the family even more proud and was particularly touching for former Magpies president Eddie who was watching on from Melbourne on Father’s Day.

“He is very aware (of the number) as is the family,’’ McGuire said.

“That’s why we loved it. Couldn’t believe of all the number that’s the one!”

Joe McGuire, centre, with Ohio State teammates. Picture: Instagram

Millane is a Collingwood icon who lost his life in a car accident 12 months after starring in the Magpies drought-breaking 1990 premiership.

Joe, a punter signed in July after quietly training for several years, earned the removal of his ‘black stripe’, which is a tradition at the club for new players who have proven themselves.

Freshmen and new players begin with the stripe on their helmets, which is a symbol of them being newcomers.

McGuire took to the field at home before a crowd of more than 102,000 people with Ohio scoring a big 52-6 victory.

Pro Kick Australia’s Nathan Chapman said McGuire had earned his start.

“He got a 44.7 yard average which is a great first up effort,’’ Chapman said.

Joe McGuire punting for Ohio on Sunday.

“He’s kept at it and I’m really proud of him to get that first game under his belt. If he just does his job he can have a really good career out of it. Another Aussie Jesse Mirco was there last year and they had a few guys so I’m chuffed for him to be doing that.”

Eddie visited Ohio last November but was watching from Melbourne and messaging wife Carla who was in the stands, as well as Essendon great Dustin Fletcher whose son Mason was punter for the Cincinnati Bearcats.

Xander, Eddie, Carla and Joe McGuire. Picture: Karon Photography

In the Buckeyes’ social media video announcing McGuire’s elevation, the coach says: “This guy has been working his butt off … it’s a little long overdue … but he’s Australian with a leg. Show some respect.”

Joe, who left a commerce course at Melbourne University to pursue his NFL ambitions, replies to his teammates: “Thank you for welcoming me in the brotherhood … shout out to the Specs … coach Keys, coach Daniel, the team gets better every day … go Bucks.”