Nathan Buckley Regrets Disgraceful Treatment of Teammates Amid AFL Career Struggles
Nathan Buckley expressed regret over his "disgraceful" treatment of teammates during his AFL career on The Imperfects podcast. The former Collingwood captain acknowledged that his tough demeanor masked deep insecurities and contributed to isolating behaviors, including a reliance on alcohol. He admitted that his attitude and body language were disrespectful, reflecting a struggle to cope with the pressures of performance.
Nathan Buckley, a former AFL player, expressed deep regret over his treatment of others during his career, describing it as 'disgraceful.' On The Imperfects podcast, Buckley reflected on his time as captain of the Collingwood Football Club, noting that he struggled with insecurity and often hid his emotions.
Buckley's Revelation on the Podcast
During the podcast episode aired on Wednesday, Buckley opened up about his experiences as a player, revealing that he maintained a tough exterior while concealing his inner struggles. He recounted moments where he experienced emotional turmoil, stating, 'The guy that had tears running down his cheeks was thankful that it was raining periodically, because he never wanted to show weakness, never wanted to show vulnerability.'
Isolation and Coping Mechanisms
Buckley admitted to rarely seeking help, a choice that ultimately led to feelings of isolation. He described his behavior on and off the field as 'disgraceful,' attributing it in part to a protective mechanism. He also acknowledged that he resorted to heavy drinking on weekends as a way to cope with the pressures of professional sports, sharing, 'I want to control everything, but then I want to control nothing.'
Reflection on Coaching and Team Dynamics
Throughout his career, several coaches attempted to address Buckley's attitude and body language. He recognized how his visible disappointment and negative demeanor negatively affected his teammates and the club. Buckley noted, 'To behave the way that I behaved was disgraceful, really, when I step back.' This self-awareness highlights his journey toward personal growth after leaving the field.
Life After Football
After retiring from playing, Buckley transitioned into coaching, leading Collingwood before moving on to a successful career in sports commentary with Fox Footy. His reflections serve as an important reminder of the challenges athletes face both during and after their careers.
