Colin Sylvia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Colin Sylvia |
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| Personal information | |||
| Full name | Colin Martin Sylvia | ||
| Date of birth | 8 November 1985 | ||
| Place of birth | Mildura, Victoria, Australia | ||
| Date of death | 28 October 2018 (aged 32) | ||
| Place of death | Mildura, Victoria, Australia | ||
| Original team | Bendigo Pioneers (TAC Cup) | ||
| Draft | No. 3 (PP), 2003 National Draft Melbourne |
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| Position(s) | Midfielder | ||
| Career highlights | |||
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Colin Martin Sylvia (born 8 November 1985 – died 28 October 2018) was an Australian rules football player. He played for the Melbourne Football Club and Fremantle Football Club. Both teams are part of the top-level Australian Football League (AFL).
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Colin Sylvia's Football Journey
Colin Sylvia started playing football at a young age. When he was just 15, he made his debut for the Merbein senior team. This was in the Sunraysia Football League. He was even part of Merbein's winning team in 2002.
Playing in the AFL
In 2009, Colin had one of his best years with the Melbourne Football Club. He averaged 22 disposals (getting the ball) and kicked 17 goals. In one amazing game against Hawthorn, he had 37 disposals. He also kicked four goals, with three in a row during the third quarter. He earned three Brownlow Medal votes for his great effort in that game. After this successful year, Colin signed a new two-year contract with Melbourne.
The 2010 season was a bit tough for Colin due to injuries. He missed seven games that year. However, in the 15 matches he did play, he was often one of Melbourne's top players. He finished fifth in the club's best and fairest award, called the Keith 'Bluey' Truscott Medal. He also tied for the most Brownlow Medal votes for Melbourne that year.
In May 2013, Colin received a three-game ban from the AFL. This was for an on-field incident during a game against Gold Coast.
At the end of the 2013 season, Colin finished fifth in Melbourne's best and fairest award again. He then joined Fremantle as a free agent. This means he could choose which club to play for.
Before the 2015 AFL season began, Colin was moved to the West Australian Football League (WAFL). This happened because he did not meet the fitness standards. On 28 April 2015, Colin announced he was retiring from football right away.
Colin Sylvia's Life Outside Football
Colin Sylvia sometimes faced challenges with his actions away from the field. In March 2008, he received a one-match ban and a fine. This was for not following team rules, like being out late and missing a required recovery session. About a year later, in March 2009, he again did not meet team expectations. He was suspended by the club's leaders for a game.
In 2009, Colin spoke about his challenges outside of football. He also shared how injuries almost made him stop playing the sport he loved.
Colin Sylvia's Passing
On 28 October 2018, Colin Sylvia was driving in Irymple, near Mildura. His car was involved in a collision with another vehicle. This happened around 2:20 pm at an intersection. Sadly, Colin died at the scene of the accident. The driver of the other car was not seriously hurt.
A public funeral for Colin was held in Mildura on 9 November. This was the day after what would have been his 33rd birthday. A private cremation followed the service.
