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Collingwood star Jamie Elliott has added another incredible chapter to his story of resilience and brilliance, being named the Bob Ross Award winner for Best Finals Player after a phenomenal September campaign that saw him average 14.5 disposals, 7.5 marks, and four fiercely contested finals appearances.
For Elliott β affectionately known as βBillyβ among fans and teammates β this recognition is far more than just an individual accolade. Itβs a testament to the grit, courage, and perseverance that have defined his journey in black and white. From heartbreaking injuries to clutch performances that have lifted the Magpies to glory, Elliottβs career has always been about heart over hardship.
Throughout the 2025 finals series, Elliott was electric. Whether soaring high for contested grabs or delivering precise goal assists under pressure, he embodied the Collingwood spirit. His ability to rise in big moments β often when his team needed him most β made him an undeniable force in the Magpiesβ finals run.
In accepting the award, Elliott was humble yet deeply reflective. βThis means a lot,β he said. βEvery time I pull on the jumper, I just want to give everything Iβve got for the boys, for the fans, and for the club. Finals footy is what we live for β itβs where the best moments are made.β
Coach Craig McRae was full of praise for the 32-year-old forward, describing him as βthe heartbeat of the team.β βJamieβs courage and consistency in finals have been incredible,β McRae said. βHe plays with no fear β he throws himself into every contest and leads by example. What he gives us on and off the field is irreplaceable.β
Elliottβs finals campaign was a display of complete football maturity β blending his trademark flair with selfless teamwork. His defensive efforts and willingness to push up the ground to support younger forwards were pivotal to Collingwoodβs balanced attacking system. Each mark and tackle carried the weight of years of resilience and recovery, following multiple back and shoulder setbacks earlier in his career.
Teammate Darcy Moore summed it up perfectly: βJamieβs a warrior. Heβs been through it all β injuries, setbacks, comebacks β and heβs still here, playing some of the best footy of his life. No one deserves this award more.β
Elliottβs story is one of perseverance rewarded β a player who never gave up, no matter the obstacles. For fans, his triumph is another reason to celebrate a true club hero β a man who bleeds black and white and embodies what it means to be a Magpie.
As the cheers echoed through the clubβs awards night, one thing became clear: Jamie Elliott isnβt just a fan favourite β heβs a Collingwood legend in his own right.
A fighter. A leader. A Magpie forever. π€π€

