Brayden Maynard has opened up about the significance of two small tattoos inked on his wrists ahead of Saturday’s AFL grand final.
Collingwood tough guy Maynard revealed he takes inspiration from the designs before every game, and will do so again when the Pies take on Brisbane at the MCG.
On one wrist is the signature of his paternal grandfather, Ken Maynard, while on the other is the signature of his maternal grandfather, Graham Campbell.
Maynard’s father, Peter, believes his son inherited his grandfather Ken’s competitiveness. Ken played country football in the Sunraysia and Tungamah leagues, while his football skills can be attributed to Graham, a former football player and coach.
Graham died last year after a long illness, and Maynard said he found strength thinking about his grandparents.
Brayden Maynard revealed the hidden meanings behind his tattoos
Collingwood hardman takes inspiration from inkings before every match
“I kiss my wrists and point to the sky before the siren sounds. I’m doing it for them,” Maynard said via Seven.
“They are always in my thoughts.”
Maynard comes from a family of gifted athletes. His brother, Corey, is a basketball player while his sister, Karli, works at the Melbourne Racing Club.
“A passionate football evangelist; That’s how I would describe him,” Adelaide’s first coach Graham Cornes said of Campbell.
“He spread the message, he loved the game and people around him would find that enthusiasm for the game contagious. That’s his legacy.
“Honestly, I think Dad would turn my back.” He was in good shape; very, very fit, elite on both feet,” Brayden says.
Maynard looks to help secure Collingwood premiership this weekend
“He was a tough little bugger and he was also cheeky. There are a few traits here, you could say that.
“He was a great player. He sometimes brings out his highlights when he has a few reds, which is quite funny, we laugh.
“He was a huge role model for me.”
