AS Jamie Elliott ran up the race at the Gabba for his 200th AFL game, there was a feeling in the air that this was more than just a milestone match — it was the culmination of a career shaped by resilience and unforgettable moments.

The Elliott family who all come from Euroa — made up of Jamie’s sister Caitlyn, brother-in-law Hayden, mother, nieces, and nephews — watched him emerge in the black-and-white stripes, ready to take on the Brisbane Lions.

It must have been a surreal and emotional moment for the family.

“Seeing Jamie come up the race was something I’ll never forget,” said Caitlyn Elliott, Jamie’s sister.

“The emotion in that moment — pride, joy, even a bit of disbelief — it just hit all at once.

The way we embraced it as a family, it was unreal.”

Caitlyn and Hayden Berry’s twin daughters — Jamie’s nieces — had the honour of running out onto the ground with the 200-gamer.

“The girls were so excited," Caitlyn said.

"They had been counting down for days.

“We thought one or both might have got cold feet, but being with Jamie and all the other boys getting around them really helped them relax and enjoy it.”

Jamie’s journey has never been easy — but that’s exactly what makes it so special.

He has had to endure injuries, setbacks, and long periods away from the game.

Despite all that, he has carved out a remarkable career, not just through talent, but through sheer grit and determination.

“There’s so many ways to look at Jamie’s football journey,” said Hayden, Elliott's brother-in-law, close friend, and longtime supporter.

“You can focus on the bad luck with injuries, or you can look at how lucky he’s been to do what he loves.

"Either way, no one’s worked harder to get to 200 games (and) he deserves every bit of it.

“To get through everything he has — both in life and in footy — he’s shown immeasurable resilience.

“He could have had it easy — he’s that naturally talented — but he’s had to fight for every inch, and he’s never batted an eyelid.

"That’s what makes him special.”

The trip to Brisbane was a whirlwind for the Elliott family, but it was filled with unforgettable moments.

From travelling up as a group to spending time with Jamie before and after the game, it was a weekend that reminded everyone just how much love and support surrounds him.

Fittingly, Jamie made sure his 200th game was one to remember.

He kicked two critical goals in the match — helping steer Collingwood’s momentum against last year’s premiers, Brisbane Lions.

“That’s Jamie — when the game’s on the line, he steps up,” said Hayden.

“Those two goals were pure class.

"He just has that knack for the big moment.”

It’s far from the first time he has done it: fans will never forget Round 22 in 2022, when Jamie kicked the match-winner against Carlton on his 30th birthday, or his role in Collingwood’s 2023 Grand Final victory.

But more than anything, it’s the person behind the player who has left a mark on everyone around him.

For the Elliott family, it’s more than the football player — it’s the person who never deviates from what’s important to him.

He’s a family guy, a mate, and an inspiration for everyone who follows him.

Jamie Elliott’s accolades to date include:

AFL Premiership Player – 2023.

Collingwood Leading Goalkicker – 2015, 2017.

Harry Collier Trophy (Best Young Player) – 2012.

AFL Mark of the Year – 2013.