Outright collusion, no.
As for so called "soft play", it must be remembered that this event is unlike any other APAT event, it is a TEAM event so, notwithstanding what Des said, I think that this is an element of a team event.
Granted there is a fine line but given the MTT nature and structure we are using, how else to you have "team play"?
In any case, how would you police it? I"m not going to show the AK I might have folded to a teammates push and to make me call with any 2 cards is unfair to me (and perhaps to others at the table) especially if, through no fault or mine I happen to be sitting at the same table behind him.
If APAT can come up with a method of ensuring that teammates don"t sit at the same table then let"s have at it. A lot of work if they can.
The individual prizes are there, IMO, to make the event worthwhile for those players who may not have a chance at a team prize (for whatever reason) but still have a shot at an individual prize beause they outlasted their teammates.