BREAKING NEWS: Collingwood football (AFL). Former Head coach Nathan Buckley popularly known as. “former manager ”, has shocked the Australian Football League AFL Community with a Selfless act that transcends the game of AFL Upon signing his new contract, Nathan Buckley” made the bold and compassionate decision to donate her entire $209 million signing bonus to….see more

BREAKING NEWS: Nathan Buckley Stuns AFL World with $209 Million Donation After Signing New Contract

In a move that has left the Australian Football League (AFL) community stunned and inspired, former Collingwood Football Club head coach, Nathan Buckley—popularly and affectionately known as the “former manager”—has made headlines not for a coaching comeback or commentary role, but for an extraordinary act of generosity.

Upon signing a lucrative new contract reportedly worth $209 million, Buckley made the bold and unexpected decision to donate the entire signing bonus to charitable causes that “transcend the game of football.”

A Legacy Beyond the Field

While details of the contract remain closely guarded, insiders suggest Buckley’s new role is one of significant influence—rumored to be connected to youth development, mental health initiatives, and Indigenous community engagement within the AFL and beyond.

But it’s not the role that has grabbed national attention—it’s what he did next.

Sources close to Buckley confirmed that immediately after finalizing the contract, he directed that the entire $209 million signing bonus be distributed to several charitable initiatives, including:

• Mental health programs for young athletes across Australia
• Indigenous education and sports development initiatives
• Community outreach programs in underprivileged areas
• Support funds for retired AFL players struggling post-career
• A grassroots football grant to ensure young players in rural Australia get the gear and coaching they need

“It Was Never About the Money”

In a short but powerful statement released this morning, Buckley said:

“This game has given me so much—opportunity, purpose, and community. But it’s time I give something back in a way that creates lasting change. It was never about the money. It’s about impact.”

AFL Community Reacts

Tributes have poured in from across the sporting world. Collingwood FC President, Craig Kelly, called the gesture “one of the most selfless acts we’ve ever seen in the game.”

AFL CEO Andrew Dillon praised Buckley’s decision, stating:

“Nathan has always led with integrity, both on and off the field. This act redefines leadership. It sets a new standard for what it means to be part of the AFL community.”

Even long-time rivals have joined in the praise. Former Essendon coach James Hird tweeted:

“You don’t see this every day. Massive respect to Bucks. This is legacy.”

A New Chapter

Once known for his steely determination as both a player and coach, Buckley is now being hailed as a visionary off the field. With his donation, he may have forever changed what it means to be a public figure in Australian sport.

While some might call it shocking, those who know Nathan Buckley say it’s simply who he is—a man of principle, purpose, and now, profound generosity.

Stay tuned as more details emerge about the specific programs his donation will support and the powerful ripple effects it may have across Australian sport and society