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Heartbreaking News: Collingwood Senior Head Coach Craig McRae Officially Resigns After Signing 2-Year Contract Extension
In a shocking and emotional twist for Collingwood Football Club fans, senior head coach Craig McRae has officially resigned—just months after agreeing to a two-year contract extension that was set to keep him at the helm until the end of 2026.
The news broke early Thursday morning and has sent ripples through the AFL community, with supporters and players alike expressing disbelief and sorrow. McRae, who led Collingwood to its record-breaking 16th premiership in 2023, cited deeply personal reasons behind his decision to step down, saying, “This has been the toughest decision of my professional life, but one I’ve made for the wellbeing of my family and myself.”
McRae, affectionately nicknamed “Fly” by the Magpie faithful, took over the coaching role in 2022 and quickly reinvigorated the club with a bold, high-pressure style of play. In just two seasons, he not only transformed the team’s performance on the field but also earned widespread admiration for his authenticity, leadership, and connection with players.
The club released an official statement this morning confirming McRae’s resignation, stating, “We are devastated to announce that Craig McRae has made the difficult decision to step away from his role as senior coach. While we are heartbroken by his departure, we respect and support his choice and thank him for his outstanding contribution to the Collingwood Football Club.”
Sources close to the club suggest McRae has been wrestling with the decision for several weeks, particularly after the birth of his second child earlier this year. The pressures of balancing elite coaching duties with family life reportedly became overwhelming, despite the unwavering support of Collingwood’s administration.
Players were informed of the decision late Wednesday evening in a closed-door meeting at the Holden Centre. According to insider reports, the room was filled with emotion as McRae addressed the team, many of whom consider him a mentor and father figure.
Assistant coach Hayden Skipworth is expected to step in as interim head coach while the club begins its search for a permanent replacement.
As McRae steps away, his legacy remains firmly intact—a premiership coach, a transformative leader, and a beloved figure in the black-and-white family. Collingwood now faces the daunting task of moving forward without the man who brought the spark back to Victoria Park.
