Fremantle forward Chris Mayne will move to Collingwood under free agency after the Magpies lodged documentation with the AFL today.
Fremantle general manager of list management Brad Lloyd said the paperwork was lodged with the AFL shortly before today’s 5pm (AEST) deadline.
“We have been advised by the AFL that we will receive compensation pick 23, an early round two selection for Chris’ free agency move to Collingwood,” Lloyd said.
“We are of the view that this is fair compensation under the AFL’s formula, and will be useful in enhancing our trade or draft strategies.”
Senior coach Ross Lyon said he held Mayne in the highest regard as a player and person.
“He is an elite pressure forward who kicked almost 200 goals in more than 170 games for Fremantle, and his work ethic and character are of the highest order,” Lyon said.
“He has been a significant contributor to Fremantle, particularly during my five years at the club, and he will always be admired and respected for that.”
Drafted from Perth Demons with pick 40 in the 2007 national draft, Mayne made an immediate impact for Fremantle as a hardworking half forward.
The Belmont product made his debut in round two, 2008. He went on to play 17 matches in his first season before his second and third years were restricted by injury.
Upon his return to regular football in 2011, Mayne was equal leading goal kicker and the following year won the club’s Players’ Award.
Throughout the 2012 and 2013 seasons, Mayne tallied 76 goals and 19 behinds – a conversation rate that rivalled most players in the league.
His achievements in 2013, which also included a career-high 24 goal assists, earned him a place in the 40-man All-Australian squad.
In recent years, Mayne’s reputation has centred on his fierce tenacity and unwavering work rate.
The ultimate team player, he has laid more tackles in each of the past two seasons than in any previous year.
A Life Member, Mayne leaves the club after 172 games with 196 goals to his name – the fourth-most of any Fremantle player.
Off the field he was an outstanding contributor in the community.
His on-going commitment to his favourite charity – The Starlight Children’s Foundation – saw him become a driving force behind the club’s annual Starlight Purple Haze Game.
It is a cause he was extremely passionate about and he has left a lasting impact on many people’s lives.
After Wednesday’s movements and with compensation picks included, Fremantle currently have picks seven, 23, 35, 43, 61, 73, 79 and 97 in the 2016 NAB AFL National Draft.
