[1] Called "a fine athlete with a big leap and strong hands... a precise kick for goal, and a deadly snapshot on the run",[1] Collins spurned offers from numerous VFL clubs and was appointed captain-coach of Coburg in 1940.

[2] Wearing guernsey number four, Collins made his VFL debut in Round three 1942 against Essendon at Windy Hill, kicking one goal.

[5] Collins was posted to 53 Australian Bulk Issues Petroleum and Oil Depot Platoon, gaining the rank of Staff Sergeant.

[6] Collins kicked six goals in their Round 10 match against North Melbourne, which was said to "galvanise the side" and led ultimately to the 1945 premiership.

[10] At Golden Point there is evidence that Collins invented the checkside punt during the late 1940s, two decades before it was first used in the VFL.