Why Boomer must play on

Why Boomer must play on

By Andrew Stuart, Exercise Science Writer/Blogger

Brent "Boomer" Harvey broke Michael Tuck's AFL games record with 428 appearances. Despite an outstanding 2016 season, North Melbourne delisted him before the final round, declining to offer a contract for 2017 — a decision that drew criticism from fans and observers.

Boomer's 2016 season

In 22 games he has kicked 36 goals, 12 more than last year and a career best. His averages — 21.6 disposals, 12.4 kicks, 9 handballs, 4.3 marks, 2.5 tackles and 6 contested possessions — were nearly all above his career average. He ranked 24th league-wide statistically and second-best for North Melbourne.

Age and performance

Modern exercise science enables athletes to maintain peak performance far longer than previous generations. Unlike past eras when decline typically occurred in players' early-to-mid careers, contemporary athletes — including Nick Riewoldt and Corey Enright — continue achieving career-best seasons into their mid-30s.

Research from 2015 indicated that sixty is the new middle age, with average life expectancy reaching 83 years by 2014. There are over 60% more professional athletes competing past age 40 than there were a decade earlier.

The Jaromir Jagr example

The 44-year-old NHL star continues to excel with the Florida Panthers. "There's no reason to quit. I love the game. If I can play in the NHL, why not keep going?" His strength coach noted: "his reaction times are better and he is still as quick as ever but the guy works his arse off to combat the brutal hits of the game." Jagr employs recovery methods including ice immersion, cryotherapy (-230°F) and specialised stretching techniques.

Pablo Prigioni, who made his NBA debut at 36 and continues playing, further demonstrates that age-based dismissal contradicts modern athletic capability.

Conclusion

North Melbourne's decision reflects outdated perspectives rather than Harvey's physical capabilities. Harvey should continue playing, potentially with another premiership-contending club, to demonstrate that chronological age should not determine athletic viability.

Play on Boomer!