BREAKING NEWS: Collingwood football Head Coach Craig McRae Makes Shocking Decision That Hurts His Entire Team of Collingwood and Organization Reacts in Shock and Accepts His Resignation Boldly with the following announcement that over……. see more

BREAKING NEWS: Collingwood Football Head Coach Craig McRae Makes Shocking Decision That Hurts His Entire Team — Collingwood Organization Reacts in Shock and Accepts His Resignation Boldly

‎In a stunning and unexpected move that has rocked the AFL community, Collingwood Football Club Head Coach Craig McRae has officially tendered his resignation, citing personal reasons and “irreconcilable differences” with the current direction of the club. The decision, which insiders describe as both abrupt and deeply emotional, has sent shockwaves through the team and its loyal fanbase.

According to an internal source within the club, McRae informed the team early this morning during a closed-door meeting at the Holden Centre. Reports suggest the mood was somber as players, coaches, and staff were left visibly shaken by the announcement. Many players were reportedly caught off guard, with one senior player describing the news as “a gut punch to the entire organization.”

“Overwhelmed and Deeply Reflective”

In a brief and carefully worded public statement, McRae said:

“This was not a decision I made lightly. Coaching Collingwood has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life. However, after careful consideration and reflection, I believe it’s time for me to step away and allow the club to pursue a new direction. I am overwhelmed, deeply reflective, and ultimately grateful for the opportunity.”

The Collingwood board, led by President Jeff Browne, responded swiftly to McRae’s resignation. In a press release titled “With Respect and Resolve,” the club acknowledged McRae’s contributions to the team while firmly accepting his decision.

“While we are shocked and disappointed, we boldly respect Craig’s decision. His leadership, integrity, and commitment to this club have been unmatched. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience and unity. The organization will now begin a comprehensive search for a successor who will build on the strong foundation Craig has laid.”

The Fallout: Team Left Reeling

Sources inside the locker room indicate that McRae’s resignation may have stemmed from tensions within the executive leadership and differing visions for the club’s long-term strategy. Speculation has already begun regarding who will step into the role, with assistant coach Brendon Bolton currently expected to act as interim head coach.

Fans have taken to social media en masse, expressing disbelief and heartbreak. The Pies Army, known for its passionate support, is calling for transparency and reassurance as the team prepares for the upcoming finals campaign.

What’s Next?

The resignation comes at a pivotal moment for Collingwood, with the club still a strong contender in the premiership race. The timing could not be more critical — or more delicate.

Club sources say an emergency board meeting is scheduled within the next 48 hours to discuss the transition plan and finalize interim coaching arrangements. Meanwhile, McRae is expected to step away from football entirely — at least for now.

As the AFL community digests this bombshell, one thing is clear: Collingwood’s 2025 campaign has taken a dramatic and unexpected turn.

Stay tuned as more details unfold in the hours to come.