AFL star Toby Greene’s hilarious note explains bad boy behaviour

Toby Greene is no stranger to being reported, fined and suspended for on-field trangressions. This childhood letter may reveal why.

Toby Greene has a reputation as one of the bad boys of the AFL when it comes to on-field conduct — and he warned something like that might happen when he was a kid.

The GWS forward took to Instagram on Tuesday night to upload a note he wrote many years ago outlining his views on player behaviour.

It’s hard to believe that youngster is the same person who’s grown up to be one of the most reported players in the league — but he predicted children like him would wind up copying bad behaviour if footy stars didn’t rein in their aggression.

“The afl players should not show a bad egsample (sic) to younger kids,” the note reads. “They would probably copy Mal Michael and Chris Scott who could be their role model.

“I feel angry because the players show bad behaviour to future players. Little kids would get in trouble for being rough if they copy them.”

Watch every match of the 2021 AAMI Community Series LIVE on Kayo. New to Kayo? Try 14-Days Free Now >

Brisbane legends Mal Michael and Chris Scott were known for their uncompromising, hard-nosed approach to the game and played a key role in the Lions’ premiership three-peat from 2001-2003.

They also had a liking for leaving opponents battered and bruised, as well as beaten on the scoreboard.

Maybe Greene’s prophecy came true and his string of questionable incidents is because he grew up watching his heroes do something similar on the field of battle.

That’s certainly what the 27-year-old seemed to suggest on social media — although with tongue very much in cheek.

“Found this beautiful piece of literature from the archives!” Greene wrote of his note. “Mal and Chris have cost me thousands.”

Former Giants star Dylan Buckley commented on the post: “@malmichael @chrisscott look what ya gone done lads ruined a poor kid’s career.”

Journalist Neroli Meadows added: “Holy hell this is gold.”

Greene is no stranger to falling foul of AFL officials. He’s been fined more than $26,000 and suspended for a total of seven games since beginning his career with the Giants in 2012, finding himself in front of the tribunal as often as he finds himself on the scoresheet.

He caused a stink with his controversial marking style of raising his boot when taking a grab, which plonked him in hot water more than once and attracted a barrage of criticism from plenty of figures in sport.

Last year Greene was fortunate to escape suspension for an off-the-ball hit on Fremantle’s Reece Conca, let off with just a fine.

Greene is nothing if not competitive.