Beams, 21, was Collingwood’s 29th selection in the 2008 national draft. He made his debut in round two of 2009 and has since played 49 of a possible 58 matches, including all six finals matches.
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From the 2009 draft, Beams has played the third most games behind Daniel Rich (Brisbane - 54) and Stephen Hill (Fremantle - 53).
Jonathon Bernard (Collingwoodfc.com.au) What does it mean to play 50 games for Collingwood?
Dayne Beams: It’s a small step in my career but I wouldn’t want to have done it at any other club.
Why not any other club?
Collingwood has been massive for me and stuck with me through the thick and the thin and I owe the club a lot. It has a reputation as a big-time club but it also has another side to it, the way every player is looked after.
What do you remember from your debut (v Melb at the MCG: 18 possessions, six tackles, five marks, one goal)
I was down in Geelong at Skilled Stadium ready to play in the VFL on Saturday morning and I got the call to say I had to play for Dale Thomas who pulled out of the match sick.
I had to borrow Scott Reed’s car to drive to the G; it was a real whirlwind. It probably didn’t give me much time to think about it, which was a good thing.
What are the three most important things you have learned from your debut to game 50
1. Don’t room with Scott Pendlebury because he snores.
2. Don’t leave yourself open to practical jokes, have your guard up.
3. You hear about people saying you need to be professional. It’s true. Everything you can help or hurt your game.
What was your best game during the 50
I enjoyed my second ANZAC Day game (23 disposals, eight marks, one goal). I thought I played well.
What was your worst game
The first grand final (12 disposals). I didn’t get my hands on it. I didn’t have much more of an impact in the second game but I had a better game. I did everything I could in that week to recover and get my body right for the replay.
Who have you learned the most from at the club
He isn’t here anymore but Shane O’Bree had a massive impact on me. His knowledge of the game is better than anyone I know. His ability to communicate with young fellas was massive.
That’s probably why he is a good it at the Gold Coast overseeing the midfield.
What is one tip you would have for someone who is about to play their first AFL game
Get as much advice as you can from more experienced players. And make sure you enjoy yourself and relax as much as you can.
What parts of your game will you be working on for your next 50
The defensive side of my game needs work. Not so much when my direct opponent has the footy but when the opposition is in attack.
How has the premiership changed the playing group’s attitude this year
It’s a different form of motivation.
Last year it was all about winning our first premiership.
This year it’s about recalling that feeling we all felt immediately after the win, and using it as our drive. We all now know what it takes to be there, we are just using a different form of desire to get there.
