IT IS OVER: Collingwood Basketball Current Head Coach Craig McRae had Submitted Resignation letter to….se more
A Shocking Departure
Late last night, McRae handed in his resignation to Collingwood’s board, a decision that was confirmed in a brief yet emotional press conference early this morning The abrupt nature of the move immediately rocked the AFL world and left the Magpie Army reeling.
A Legacy Built on Hearts and Trophies
Since assuming the helm in 2021, McRae transformed a struggling Collingwood side into a powerhouse. Under his leadership, the club surged back into the top tier, narrowly missed the Grand Final in 2022, and ultimately claimed premiership glory in 2023—reshaping Collingwood’s culture in the process
His approach wasn’t just about tactics; it infused psychological resilience, unity, and an electrifying brand of football into the Magpies. Players and fans alike were drawn to his human-first philosophy, making his impact all the more profound
Why Did He Quit?
McRae’s resignation is reportedly rooted in deeply personal reasons, possibly involving family priorities, the mounting pressures of elite coaching, and internal dynamics within the club’s leadership . Though the resignation didn’t detail specific causes, McRae reportedly wrote that it was “time for a new chapter, both for myself and for the club,” conveying gratitude for the unwavering support he receivedReactions and Ripples
Players and Fans: The response across social media was swift and emotional. Players, including team captain Darcy Moore, praised McRae as “a mentor and a pillar of strength,” while fans flooded online forums and gathering spots with tributes, sorrow, and disbelief
The Club: With the season already underway, Collingwood now faces the daunting task of finding a successor—possibly promoting assistant coaches like Brendon Bolton or Justin Leppitsch, though no official decision has been announced yet
What’s Next—For the Club and for ‘Fly’?
For Collingwood, the timing could not be more critical. Holding onto their momentum while transitioning leadership will require a steady hand and unifying presence—qualities McRae embodied.
As for McRae himself, his future remains open. Speculation suggests he may step away from the game temporarily, perhaps recharge, or even return in a different role—be it media, development, or advisory
The End of One Chapter…
In a coaching landscape often dominated by pragmatism and pressure, Craig McRae’s tenure at Collingwood stood out for its emotional authenticity, strategic daring, and transformative leadership. His departure closes a powerful chapter—one marked not just by success, but by soul—and leaves a lasting legacy for the club’s future direction.
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