Former Collingwood star Jaidyn Stephenson has announced his retirement from the AFL, sparking a wave of mixed reactions from fans and commentators. At just 25, Stephenson’s career journey has been marked by early success, controversies, and ultimately, a sense of disillusionment with the game. Following the news, former teammate Dale Thomas reflected on the harsh treatment Stephenson received from Collingwood fans after his departure, describing the toll it likely took on his passion and mental well-being.
Stephenson’s career began with a meteoric rise at Collingwood, where he won the Rising Star award in 2018. However, a betting scandal in 2019 led to a 10-game suspension, which marked the beginning of a difficult period for the young athlete. Despite his talent, Collingwood traded him to North Melbourne at the end of the 2020 season as part of their salary cap adjustments. His tenure at North Melbourne, while showing flashes of promise, was marred by injuries and inconsistent performance, including a notable hip injury in 2021 caused by a backyard biking accident.
Throughout his time with North, Stephenson faced ongoing criticism from Collingwood fans, who celebrated his struggles rather than offering support. On social media, reactions to his retirement have been divided, with some fans expressing disappointment in the negative comments directed his way. Former Collingwood player Dale Thomas sympathized with Stephenson, suggesting that this level of scrutiny might have eroded his confidence and love for the game.
Commentators like Brownlow medallist Adam Cooney also weighed in, expressing regret over what he views as “a wasted talent.” According to Cooney, Stephenson’s early success may have heightened expectations and pressures that he struggled to meet, particularly with ongoing off-field issues affecting his mental resilience. Cooney described Stephenson as a player who initially seemed poised for greatness but eventually lost his spark, possibly due to the weight of expectations and the impact of personal setbacks.
Stephenson’s decision to walk away from the game is reportedly tied to a loss of passion, but many hope he’ll regain his love for AFL, perhaps in a less intense environment. With such raw talent and a track record of impressive performances, fans and commentators alike hope this is a pause rather than a permanent goodbye, allowing him the space to rediscover his passion without the pressure that once overshadowed his potential.