The players who have worn the number 31 guernsey for the Collingwood Football Club represent a specific lineage within the team’s history. This numerical designation connects individual athletes across different eras, signifying their contribution to the club’s legacy. For example, a player known for their defensive skills might have worn it in one decade, while an emerging forward might adopt it in another.
Assigning a specific number to a player can carry significant symbolic weight. It might be associated with a period of success for the club, individual player achievements, or even simply be a matter of tradition. Understanding which players have worn the number provides insight into the evolving dynamics of the team, including changes in playing styles, recruitment strategies, and the overall narrative of Collingwood Football Club’s journey.
The following sections will delve into the specific individuals who have had the honour of wearing this particular guernsey for Collingwood, highlighting their careers, contributions to the team, and the impact they had during their time with the club. This detailed exploration will shed light on their personal stories and their place within the broader context of Collingwood’s rich sporting history.
1. Guernsey Succession
The term “Guernsey Succession” directly relates to the lineage of players who have worn the number 31 for the Collingwood Football Club. It refers to the chronological order in which different players have inherited and represented the club while wearing that specific number. Understanding this succession provides a historical context, revealing how the role and significance associated with a particular guernsey number can evolve over time. For instance, a guernsey initially worn by a key defender may later be assigned to a forward, signifying a shift in the team’s needs or strategic direction. Each player’s performance, achievements, and overall contribution to the team inevitably shapes the legacy associated with that number.
Examining the succession also highlights periods of stability or transition within the club. A prolonged tenure for a player wearing number 31 might suggest a period of consistent team performance or a strong focus on a particular playing style. Conversely, frequent changes in the number’s occupant could indicate strategic experimentation, player turnover, or the emergence of new talent. For example, if the number was worn by a long-serving ruckman known for his physical presence during a successful era for Collingwood, it could create pressure or a sense of expectation for subsequent players assigned that number.
In essence, “Guernsey Succession” provides a framework for analyzing the evolving narrative associated with a particular Collingwood player number. By studying the sequence of players who have worn number 31, one can gain insight into the club’s history, strategic decisions, and the diverse personalities that have contributed to its overall identity. This understanding underscores the importance of each player’s individual contributions and how those contributions collectively shape the number’s meaning and legacy within the Collingwood Football Club.
2. Individual Player Statistics
The analysis of individual player statistics offers a quantitative perspective on the contributions of those who have worn the number 31 guernsey for Collingwood. These metrics provide an objective measure of their performance, allowing for comparisons across different eras and playing positions, and enabling a more nuanced understanding of their impact on the team.
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Games Played
The number of games played by each individual wearing number 31 reflects their longevity and sustained presence within the team. This statistic indicates player durability, selection consistency, and, potentially, their importance to the team’s structure. A high number of games played suggests a player who was consistently fit, reliable, and valued by coaches over an extended period.
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Goals Kicked
For players in forward or midfield roles, the number of goals kicked provides insight into their offensive contribution. This metric highlights their scoring ability, accuracy, and overall effectiveness in converting opportunities into points. Comparing the goal-kicking records of different individuals wearing number 31 can reveal variations in playing styles and team strategies over time.
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Disposals and Efficiency
Disposals, encompassing kicks and handballs, quantify a player’s involvement in the game and their ability to win possession. Disposal efficiency, measured as the percentage of effective disposals, indicates the quality and impact of their ball usage. These statistics are particularly relevant for midfielders and defenders, showcasing their capacity to control the flow of play and maintain possession for the team.
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Tackles and Contested Possessions
Tackles and contested possessions reflect a player’s defensive efforts and their ability to win the ball in contested situations. These metrics are crucial for evaluating players in defensive roles or those with a strong emphasis on physicality. High numbers in these categories suggest a player who is committed to winning back possession and disrupting the opposition’s play.
By examining these statistical facets of each individual who has worn the number 31 guernsey, it becomes possible to construct a comprehensive profile of their playing style, strengths, and overall contribution to the Collingwood Football Club. This quantitative analysis, combined with qualitative observations, provides a deeper appreciation of their place within the team’s history and the legacy they have left behind.
3. Era-Specific Contributions
The contributions of players wearing the number 31 guernsey for Collingwood are inextricably linked to the era in which they played. Analyzing these contributions necessitates understanding the prevailing playing style, strategic approaches, and team dynamics characteristic of that specific period. For example, a player donning the number during a defensively focused era might be judged primarily on their ability to shut down key opposition players and maintain a high tackle count. Conversely, a player in a more offensively oriented period would likely be evaluated on their scoring ability and contribution to the team’s attacking plays. A cause-and-effect relationship exists: the environment of the era shapes the demands placed on the player, and the player’s response to those demands defines their contribution. Understanding these era-specific expectations provides a crucial lens through which to assess their individual performance and overall impact.
The importance of understanding Era-Specific Contributions is paramount when evaluating the legacy of individuals who wore the number 31. Consider a player who wore the guernsey during a rebuilding phase for the club. Their statistical output might not match that of a player who thrived during a premiership-winning era. However, their contributions in terms of leadership, mentoring younger players, and setting a positive example during a challenging time may be equally, if not more, significant. To accurately assess their impact, it is essential to consider the specific context in which they played and the unique challenges they faced. Similarly, a player who excelled in a highly specialized role within a specific game plan might not have achieved the same level of success if deployed in a different system or era. A holistic understanding of their era-specific contributions ensures that their achievements are appropriately recognized and valued within the broader history of Collingwood.
In summary, evaluating the historical impact of individuals who have worn the number 31 guernsey requires careful consideration of the prevailing conditions of their respective eras. Playing styles, team strategies, and broader organizational objectives all shaped the expectations placed upon these players. By recognizing the significance of era-specific contributions, a more accurate and nuanced appreciation of their individual accomplishments, challenges faced, and their overall impact on the Collingwood Football Club can be achieved. This approach enables a more complete and fair assessment of their legacy, ensuring that their contributions are properly understood and celebrated within the rich tapestry of the club’s history.
Collingwood Number 31 Players
This exploration has revealed that the players who have worn the Collingwood number 31 guernsey represent a diverse group, each contributing to the club’s history in unique ways. From examining guernsey succession to analyzing individual statistics and understanding era-specific roles, a detailed picture emerges of their collective impact. The analysis reveals that their individual journeys are intertwined with the evolving narrative of the Collingwood Football Club.
The history associated with Collingwood number 31 players serves as a reminder that a team’s legacy is built not only on grand victories, but also on the consistent efforts of individuals who represent the club. Continued research and preservation of these players’ stories will further enrich the historical understanding of the Collingwood Football Club for future generations of supporters and analysts alike.
