Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
AFL Stars Harry and Ben McKay Contrast Club Cultures: Bombers’ Unusual Sock Policy Revealed
Twin AFL stars Harry and Ben McKay have offered a fascinating comparison of their respective clubs, Carlton and Essendon, highlighting a quirky difference in game day preparations. In a recent podcast discussion, the brothers provided fans with an insight into the behind-the-scenes routines of AFL players, with Ben revealing an unexpected equipment policy at Essendon.
Bombers’ Sock Surprise: McKay’s Hilarious Kit Mix-Up
Ben McKay, who joined Essendon from North Melbourne in 2024, disclosed a surprising detail about the Bombers: players are responsible for providing their own socks. This revelation led to a humorous admission from Ben, who confessed to repeatedly forgetting his socks during his initial weeks with the club.
During their podcast, the McKay brothers were discussing essential game day items when Ben’s comment about socks caught Harry off guard. “At Essendon, we have to bring our own socks,” Ben stated, eliciting surprise from his brother.
“I remember last year, because at North we had our socks supplied, for the first five weeks I kept forgetting and had to ask the property guy, ‘Sorry mate, I’ve left my socks at home again’,” Ben recounted.
Game Day Essentials: Boots, Gear, and Club Support
Ben further detailed the contents of his kit bag for matches, providing a glimpse into a player’s standard matchday equipment:
- Boots: Two pairs, cleaned the night before games.
- Massage Gun: A small, golf ball-like massage tool for foot recovery.
- Change of Clothes: Essential attire for post-game activities.
- Personal Socks: A necessity due to club policy.
Carlton’s Contrasting Approach: Player Support and Boot Service
Harry McKay then outlined his game day must-haves, mentioning “food and hydration” as key items. He contrasted Essendon’s sock policy with Carlton’s more comprehensive player support system.
“Johnny, our property manager, collects our boots after captain’s run and places them in our lockers, meaning we don’t have to bring much,” Harry explained. He also confirmed that, unlike Essendon, Carlton provides socks for its players, highlighting a difference in club provisions for player convenience.
Harry McKay’s Absence: Personal Reasons and Speculation
Harry McKay is currently the subject of speculation after Carlton announced his absence for a second consecutive match due to personal reasons. The club initially cited an unspecified illness for McKay’s withdrawal from the Hawthorn game but later clarified it was related to mental health.
Despite training earlier in the week, McKay was absent from Carlton’s captain’s run, further fueling uncertainty about his immediate return to the field.
Coach Voss Addresses McKay’s Situation with Sensitivity
“I probably won’t delve into the ‘H’ stuff,” Carlton coach Michael Voss stated when questioned about Harry McKay’s availability. Voss emphasized the club’s commitment to respecting McKay’s privacy and focusing on his well-being.
“The important thing for us is to avoid weekly discussions about his situation. We’ve been consistent as a club, stating that when he is named in the team, he will be ready to play,” Voss added, reiterating the club’s supportive stance.
Following a winless start to the season, Carlton’s upcoming game against their rivals is considered a crucial fixture for Voss’s tenure at the club.