At first glance it’s hard to believe Michael Hartley is just 20 years of age, due to his towering height - 196cm - and his powerful physique. Born in NSW on 7 June 1993 Michael moved to Melbourne to play with Collingwood as a 16-year-old before injury severely restricted his progress and led to him signing with the Coburg Lions.
His football journey began when he joined Collingwood’s development program as a NSW scholarship player at the age of 14. Michael excelled not just in football but a range of sports, including cricket, basketball and athletics.
Michael represented NSW at the 2011 U18 National Championships where he showed such promise as a defender. He was picked up by Collingwood in the rookie draft with selection No.87. He went to play four of the last five VFL games, wearing Guernsey No.47. Although Michael impressed as a key defender, his journey at Collingwood was cut short due to multiple injuries, specifically his shoulder, which ruled him out for the rest of the season
You only have to spend a short time with Michael to understand why he is so liked around the club. His easy manner, sense of humor and laid-back attitude make him great company. As a key defender, Michael will be an asset to the Coburg Football Club. His love of the game and his easy going personality make him the sort of player people not only like but enjoy coaching. It’s partly why many experts believe he can still make it in the AFL.
Michael is full of praise for the way he’s been welcomed at Coburg. He says the staff; coach Peter German and his teammates have made him feel at home. When asked about his upcoming debut for the Coburg Lions wearing Guernsey No. 6, he replied, “I’m pumped”. I’m sure that will please the coach and supporters.
FAST FACTS
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Dream Job? – Chocolate Factory
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Favourite TV Show? – Dragon Ball Z
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AFL Team? – Collingwood, Sydney, GWS
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Pet Peeve? – People that chew loudly
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Best quality about yourself? – Ravishing good-looks
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Nickname? – Harts
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Favourite Food? – Chocolate
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Favourite Team Player? – Adam Saad (Saady)
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Idol- Dad
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Favourite AFL Player? – Alan Toovey
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Sponsored by? – No Sponsor
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Greatest Achievement? – 3RD Best High Jumper in his age group, in AUS, at the age of 12
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Hobbies? – Foxtel, Food and Sleep
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3 Best Qualities As A Footballer? – Lean, Mean, Punching Machine
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Celebrity Crush – Emma Watson
Written by Aicha Saad
Last Modified on 27/03/2014 15:09