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Reilly O'Brien

Last updated on July 3, 2025 at 08:46 am

Posted on July 3, 2025 at 08:39 am

Personal information

Full name

Reilly O'Brien

Nickname(s)

ROB

Date of birth

20 August 1995 (age 29)

Original team(s)

Calder Cannons (TAC Cup)

Draft

No. 9, 2014 rookie draft

Debut

Round 20, 2016, Adelaide vs. Brisbane Lions, at Adelaide Oval

Height

202 cm (6 ft 8 in)

Weight

102 kg (225 lb)

Position(s)

Ruck

Club information

Current club

Adelaide

Number

43

Playing career

Years

Club

Games (Goals)

2015–

Adelaide

127 (14)

Career highlights

Sources: AFL Tables, AustralianFootball.com

Reilly O'Brien stands out as a prominent ruckman in the AFL, showcasing remarkable skills and leadership since his early days in Kyneton. His agility and strength make him a formidable presence on the field. While injuries have posed challenges, O'Brien's unwavering commitment to his team and community efforts highlight his dedication. But what truly sets him apart in the ever-evolving landscape of Australian football?

Early Life and Background

Reilly O'Brien grew up in a sports-loving family in the small town of Kyneton, Victoria, where his passion for Australian rules football blossomed early on. From a young age, he showed an affinity for early sports, enthusiastically participating in local competitions. His childhood interests extended beyond football, as he admired local heroes and role models who inspired him. Reilly's education history included attending Kyneton Secondary College, where he balanced academics with his athletic pursuits. His parents encouraged his sporting endeavors, cultivating a supportive environment that reinforced his dedication. As he developed his skills, Reilly remained committed to improvement, drawing motivation from his family background and the examples set by those he admired in his community.

Career Overview

After honing his skills in Kyneton, O'Brien began his professional career in the AFL, quickly making a name for himself as a talented ruckman. Throughout his journey, he’s celebrated numerous career highlights, including standout performances that showcased his capability to influence games. O'Brien’s personal achievements, such as being recognized for his endurance and skill, have further solidified his reputation in the league. Despite facing injury challenges that tested his resilience, he consistently contributed to his team’s success with strategic plays and leadership on the field. As he looks to the future, O'Brien remains optimistic about continuing to improve his game, enthusiastic to make even greater team contributions and build on his impressive track record in the AFL.

Read About More Adelaide Football Club Players

Playing Style and Skills

Demonstrating agility and strength, O'Brien excels as a ruckman, effectively combining his athleticism with tactical awareness on the field. His aerial ability sets him apart, allowing him to dominate contests and provide essential ball-ups for his teammates. O'Brien's defensive skills guarantee he can disrupt opposing plays, showcasing his commitment to both ends of the game. His offensive instincts enable him to shift quickly from defense to attack, often surprising opponents with clever positioning. Furthermore, his athletic versatility allows him to adapt to various match situations, whether it's contesting high balls or supporting midfielders. O'Brien's multifaceted skill set makes him an invaluable asset, contributing greatly to his team's overall performance and strategy.

Statistics

O'Brien's statistics reflect his significant impact on the game, showcasing his effectiveness as a ruckman. His performance metrics indicate consistent contributions, with match averages highlighting his ability to dominate the center bounce and influence play. Despite a few setbacks due to injury history, O'Brien has maintained impressive seasonal trends, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. In recent seasons, his statistics reveal a steady rise in hit-outs and disposals, underscoring his pivotal role within the team. His team contribution goes beyond mere numbers, as he often creates opportunities for teammates, enhancing overall team performance. As O'Brien continues to evolve, his statistics will serve as a demonstration of his growth and importance in the AFL landscape.

Stat

2025 Season Average

Career Average

Standout Season Performance

Standout Career Performance

Career Total

Disposals

12.2 

13.3 


18 against West Coast Eagles, Round 11

28 against Geelong Cats, Round 11, 2022

1808

Kicks

6.4 

6.2 


11 against GWS GIANTS, Round 6

15 against Hawthorn, Round 19, 2021


Goals

16

Marks

408

Tackles

484

Clearances

3.1 

3.3 


6 against Sydney Swans, Round 12

9 against Geelong Cats, Round 2, 2024

448

Handballs

5.9


7.1 


9 against Port Adelaide, Round 9

17 against North Melbourne, Round 4, 2021

850

Legacy and Impact

Legacy in the AFL often hinges on a player's ability to inspire and uplift those around them, and Reilly O'Brien exemplifies this through his unwavering commitment and leadership on the field. His legacy significance extends beyond personal achievements, as he actively engages in community contributions that foster connections and support for local initiatives. O'Brien's leadership qualities shine during matches and in the locker room, where he embraces a mentorship role, guiding younger teammates with wisdom and encouragement. His dedication not only boosts team morale but also cultivates a strong sense of camaraderie. Looking ahead, O'Brien's future aspirations include furthering his impact within the AFL and continuing to inspire the next generation, solidifying his role as a respected figure in the sport.

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