In this episode of the Out of Interest Podcast, we sit down with former Richmond and GWS Giants AFL star Brett Deledio. Brett takes us through his incredible career in footy and his transition from being one of the AFL’s top players to now mentoring the next generation as a player manager.

Brett begins by reflecting on his early years at Richmond, where he was thrust into the spotlight as the #1 draft pick with the pressure of living up to expectations. He talks about the challenges of being such a high-profile young player, the weight of representing a struggling club, and how he coped with the public’s eyes always on him. Despite those challenges, Brett became a central figure in the Tigers' rebuild.

One of the most emotional parts of Brett’s journey was his decision to leave Richmond after 12 years. Brett opens up about how he initially wanted a fresh start but later found it difficult to part ways with the club. He shares the behind-the-scenes details of his meetings with the GWS Giants and Western Bulldogs, and how he ultimately made the move to GWS, a decision that was anything but easy.

Brett also talks about the heartbreak of losing the 2017 Preliminary Final to his old side, Richmond, and the pain of watching them go on to win the premiership. Having spent over a decade with the Tigers through their darkest days, it was a difficult experience to miss out on the ultimate success. This was one of the most testing moments of his career, and Brett opens up about the emotional toll it took on him.

Beyond his playing days, Brett delves into the business side of AFL, including how players are paid, the workings of the salary cap, and how clubs manage player contracts. He candidly shares his thoughts on whether AFL players are paid enough for their contribution to the game and explains how salaries can lead to frustration within the team.

Finally, Brett discusses his current role as a player manager at Mac Sports Management, where he’s helping young athletes navigate the complexities of professional sport. He emphasizes the importance of financial literacy, budgeting, and making smart decisions early in a player’s career. Brett’s passion for mentoring the next generation shines through as he talks about setting athletes up for life after footy, ensuring they are prepared for whatever comes next.

This is a deep, insightful episode filled with both triumph and heartache, and it offers a unique look at what life is like behind the curtain in professional footy.

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