In a shocking turn of events that has sent tremors through the AFL community, Collingwood Football Club head coach Craig McRae has officially stepped down from his position this afternoon, citing a “significant error” that he says has left him unable to continue leading the Magpies “in good conscience.”
The sudden announcement, made just moments ago during an unscheduled press conference at the AIA Centre, has stunned players, fans, and analysts alike. McRae, who led Collingwood to a premiership only two seasons ago, appeared visibly emotional as he addressed a packed room of reporters, flanked by Collingwood President Jeff Browne and Football Director Graham Wright.
> “I made a mistake — one that doesn’t align with the standards I’ve always tried to uphold,” McRae said, his voice cracking slightly. “The responsibility that comes with this job is enormous, and I’ve always believed that integrity must come before success. For that reason, I have chosen to step aside.”
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The “Significant Error” — What We Know So Far
While McRae refrained from going into explicit detail, multiple sources within the club have confirmed that the “error” in question relates to a breach of internal communication protocols involving player management and team strategy during the 2025 finals series.
According to one unnamed insider, McRae allegedly shared confidential tactical notes and internal data with an outside consultant who had not been officially cleared by the AFL or the club’s integrity department. The consultant, reportedly a former opposition analyst, was assisting McRae on a freelance basis during the finals campaign.
The breach reportedly came to light during a routine post-season audit conducted by the AFL’s Integrity Unit. Although there is no suggestion of match-fixing or deliberate wrongdoing, the AFL reportedly flagged the communication as a “serious lapse of judgment” that contravened league confidentiality policies.
> “It wasn’t malicious, but it was careless,” said one senior Collingwood official, speaking on condition of anonymity. “Craig’s a passionate, detail-driven coach. He wanted every possible edge. Unfortunately, in doing that, he crossed a line that the club can’t ignore.”
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A Legacy Tarnished, but Not Erased
McRae’s departure marks an abrupt and painful end to one of the most successful modern coaching tenures in Collingwood history. Appointed in late 2021, McRae revitalized the Magpies, transforming them from an embattled side languishing near the bottom of the ladder into a high-energy, high-belief outfit that captured the 2023 AFL Premiership.
Under his leadership, Collingwood became known for their daring brand of football — a blend of creativity, defensive discipline, and unity that resonated deeply with fans. McRae’s “Fly mentality,” emphasizing positivity, humility, and emotional connection, was hailed as a model for modern coaching.
However, the fallout from today’s announcement threatens to overshadow that legacy — at least in the short term.
Club President Jeff Browne, who spoke immediately after McRae’s statement, described the situation as “deeply disappointing but handled with honesty and integrity.”
> “Craig has been a tremendous servant of this football club,” Browne said. “He made an error in judgment, but he has owned it fully. We respect his decision to resign and wish him and his family the very best as they take time to reflect and heal.”
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Players Left “Shell-Shocked”
Inside the club, the mood has been described as “somber and confused.” Players reportedly found out about McRae’s decision only an hour before the press conference, during an emergency team meeting called by senior management.
Team captain Darcy Moore was seen leaving the AIA Centre shortly after the announcement, declining to speak to reporters. However, a club spokesperson later released a brief statement attributed to Moore:
> “Craig has been more than a coach to us — he’s been a mentor, a friend, and a role model. We’re heartbroken to see him go, but we understand that he’s doing what he feels is right. We’ll rally together and move forward as a group.”
Several other players took to social media to express their support for McRae. Star midfielder Nick Daicos posted a simple message on X (formerly Twitter): “Thank you, Fly. You changed this club forever.”
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What Happens Next for Collingwood
Collingwood’s football department has confirmed that assistant coach Brendon Bolton will serve as interim head coach until a permanent replacement is appointed. The club is expected to begin an external search immediately, with early speculation linking former AFL coaches Nathan Buckley, Alastair Clarkson, and Justin Leppitsch to the role.
Football Director Graham Wright said the transition process will prioritize stability and transparency.
> “The timing is obviously far from ideal,” Wright admitted. “But our focus now is on ensuring that the players, staff, and supporters know we are united. We’ll take our time to find the right person who can continue Craig’s positive legacy while leading us into the next chapter.”
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Public and Media Reaction
The public reaction has been swift and mixed. While many fans have expressed disappointment and confusion, others have praised McRae’s integrity in stepping down voluntarily.
On talkback radio and social media, debate raged throughout the evening. Some supporters argued that the incident was overblown and that McRae should have been disciplined rather than forced to resign. Others maintained that the coach’s decision underscored the values he often preached.
Sports journalist Gerard Whateley said on SEN Radio,
> “This is a classic example of the modern pressures of elite coaching. The drive to innovate and find marginal gains can sometimes lead even the best to misstep. But McRae’s honesty in owning it speaks volumes about his character.”
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A Personal Statement from McRae
Following the press conference, McRae released a written statement through Collingwood’s media team, expanding on his reasons for stepping down:
> “I want to make it absolutely clear that my decision is not about avoiding accountability — it’s about taking full responsibility. I have always told my players that when you make a mistake, you front up, you tell the truth, and you learn from it.
The error I made did not compromise the integrity of any match or player, but it breached the trust of a system I deeply respect. After long discussions with my family and the club, I believe stepping aside is the best course of action for all involved.”
McRae added that he intends to take an extended break from football to “reflect, recharge, and spend time with family.” When asked if he could see himself returning to coaching in the future, he smiled faintly and said, “Never say never.”
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The Road Ahead for the Magpies
As Collingwood now faces an uncertain offseason, attention turns to how the team will respond on the field and off it. Preseason training was scheduled to begin in mid-November, but sources suggest the club may delay its start by a week to allow players and staff to regroup.
Analysts predict that while the loss of McRae is a major setback, the foundation he built — a strong culture, a connected playing group, and a unified leadership team — will help the Magpies weather the storm.
> “This club has been through worse and come out stronger,” said AFL commentator Daisy Pearce. “If anything, this will test the resilience that McRae instilled in them. His fingerprints are still all over this team.”
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Final Thoughts
The resignation of Craig McRae marks a stunning and emotional moment for Collingwood and the AFL world at large. In an era where scandals often end careers in bitterness and denial, McRae’s decision to step down with transparency and dignity may ultimately define his legacy more than the error itself.
He leaves behind not just a premiership, but a philosophy — one that champions accountability, optimism, and humanity in a sport too often consumed by pressure and politics.
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