THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Collingwood Australian Football League (AFL) Community are overjoyed as PRINCIPAL Charlie Gardiner and the head coach Craig McRae makes announcements of making Captain Darcy Moore Reaves the new C……view more

In what many are calling the most uplifting news of the season, the Collingwood Football Club community is riding a wave of excitement following an inspiring announcement from Club Principal Charlie Gardiner and Head Coach Craig McRae. In a press conference held earlier today, it was officially confirmed that club captain **Darcy Moore Reaves** will take on an expanded leadership role as **Collingwood’s new Culture Ambassador**.

The announcement was met with widespread celebration among fans, players, and AFL commentators alike, as Moore Reaves has long been recognized not only for his brilliance on the field but for his exemplary character, emotional intelligence, and unwavering commitment to the club’s values.

> “Darcy represents everything this club stands for — resilience, integrity, community, and excellence,” said Principal Gardiner. “We’re proud to see him step into this role that goes beyond football. He’ll be shaping the cultural heartbeat of Collingwood for years to come.”

Coach McRae echoed those sentiments, emphasizing that the decision was a unanimous one.

> “Culture is what wins premierships. It’s what sustains success. And Darcy is the living embodiment of that culture,” McRae said. “This role is not just a title — it’s a mission, and there’s no one better suited to carry it forward.”

### A Leader On and Off the Field

Moore Reaves, who has captained Collingwood with distinction since 2023, has already played a crucial role in building a strong team ethos that prioritizes mental health, inclusivity, and player development. His emotional speeches, mentorship of younger players, and community involvement have made him a standout figure in the league.

Speaking after the announcement, a visibly humbled Moore Reaves said:

> “It’s an honour I don’t take lightly. Footy has given me so much, and I see this as a chance to give back — not just to my teammates, but to the wider Collingwood family and the game itself. I’m committed to fostering a culture that’s supportive, hungry, and deeply connected.”

### Fans React: “This Is the Collingwood We Love”

Within minutes of the announcement, social media lit up with messages of support and celebration from Collingwood fans and AFL followers. Many praised the decision as “visionary” and “exactly what the game needs right now.”

Collingwood legend Nathan Buckley tweeted:

> “Massive respect to Darcy Moore Reaves. Leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about legacy. This move speaks volumes.”

The timing of the announcement couldn’t be better, as the Magpies gear up for a strong finals campaign, with momentum and morale clearly on their side.

### Looking Ahead

As Culture Ambassador, Moore Reaves will take on additional responsibilities including mentoring emerging leaders, strengthening community outreach programs, and representing the club in league-wide initiatives focused on well-being, inclusion, and social impact.

For the Collingwood faithful, this is more than good news — it’s a defining moment.

> “This is the best news we could hope for,” said long-time supporter Angela Barrett. “Darcy is more than a captain. He’s the soul of this club.”

And now, with the club’s culture in safe hands, Collingwood’s future has never looked brighter.