BREAKING NEWS: Collingwood Legend Nathan Buckley Returns as Chief Football team operation officer In a monumental announcement Collingwood General manager Charlie Gardiner and family has officially declared that Fleury the legendary Goaltender and long-time face of the franchise, will return to the organization in 2025 as Senior coaching…. see more

BREAKING NEWS: Collingwood Legend Nathan Buckley Returns as Chief Football Operations Officer — Fleury to Join as Senior Coaching Advisor in 2025

Melbourne, October 5, 2025 — In a stunning double announcement that has rocked the world of Australian sport, Collingwood Football Club has confirmed the return of two legendary figures to its leadership ranks.

Nathan Buckley, one of the most iconic names in Collingwood’s history, will return to the club in 2025 as Chief Football Operations Officer. The news was officially delivered by Collingwood General Manager Charlie Gardiner, who described the appointment as “a monumental step in shaping the future of our football program.”

Buckley, a former Brownlow Medalist, premiership-winning coach, and lifelong Magpie, stepped away from coaching in 2021 but has remained a powerful voice in the AFL landscape through media and mentoring roles. His return marks a significant shift in Collingwood’s off-field strategy, aiming to blend experience with innovation in pursuit of sustained success.

Nathan’s deep connection to Collingwood, combined with his leadership and vision, makes him the perfect person to guide our football department through its next chapter,” Gardiner said at today’s press conference.

In a surprising twist to the announcement, Gardiner also confirmed that Marc-André Fleury, the legendary NHL goaltender and long-time face of the Vegas Golden Knights and Pittsburgh Penguins, will join the organization in a unique cross-code advisory role.

Fleury, who has long expressed admiration for Australian sports culture, will take up the position of Senior Coaching Advisor, contributing to the development of leadership systems, performance psychology, and team dynamics within the club.

The partnership stems from a close relationship between the Gardiner family and Fleury, with talks quietly progressing over recent months.

“Having Marc-André involved is an incredible opportunity to draw on one of professional sport’s most respected minds,” said Gardiner. “He brings a champion’s mentality and global perspective that will benefit not just our players, but our entire coaching staff.”

This unprecedented collaboration between AFL and NHL greats signals a bold new era for Collingwood, as the club seeks to blend tradition with forward-thinking leadership.

Fans can expect both Buckley and Fleury to begin their official duties ahead of the 2025 AFL season.

More updates to follow.