CONFIRMED DEAL: His Efforts and Dedication Have Taken Him to Another Position – Will Hoskin-Elliott Set for New Role at Collingwood Under CEO Craig Kelly
In a move that has caught both fans and pundits by surprise, Collingwood Football Club CEO Craig Kelly has confirmed that veteran defender Will Hoskin-Elliott is being handed a new and crucial role within the club structure. After years of quiet but consistent service to the Magpies, Hoskin-Elliott’s hard work, adaptability, and team-first mentality have earned him more than just praise – they’ve earned him a major promotion of sorts, both on and off the field.
Craig Kelly, who has been steering the Collingwood ship with bold leadership since taking the CEO reins, made the announcement earlier this week in a press conference at the AIA Centre, calling Hoskin-Elliott’s evolution within the team “a testament to dedication, professionalism, and resilience.”
The New Role
Though not stepping away from playing duties entirely, Will Hoskin-Elliott will now officially serve as Player Leadership Mentor within the football department, combining his on-field experience with off-field responsibilities. This hybrid role is designed to bridge the gap between the younger cohort of players and the senior coaching staff — essentially making Hoskin-Elliott a vital conduit in the club’s long-term development plans.
“Will is the kind of player who leads without needing to speak loudly,” said Kelly. “He’s a professional, a quiet leader, and someone our younger players look up to. His football IQ is elite, and he’s always been a student of the game. We see this role as an extension of what he already brings to our club.”
Hoskin-Elliott’s new role will include mentoring first- and second-year players, assisting with leadership development programs, and offering strategic input to the coaching panel, particularly in the backline where he has excelled in recent seasons.
A Career Reimagined
Drafted by Greater Western Sydney with pick No. 4 in the 2011 AFL Draft, Hoskin-Elliott moved to Collingwood in 2017 and quickly became a reliable fixture in the black and white. Originally recruited for his athleticism and versatility, his transition from wing/forward to a key defensive player in recent years has underscored his team-oriented approach.
While his stats may not always dominate headlines, his influence within the four walls of the club has never been in question.
“People don’t always see what Will brings,” said senior coach Craig McRae. “But internally, he’s invaluable. This new role gives him the chance to leave a legacy that goes beyond match day performances.”
Indeed, legacy seems to be the keyword. At 32, Hoskin-Elliott may be approaching the twilight of his playing days, but this new assignment suggests Collingwood sees him as a long-term asset – potentially even a future coach or administrator within the organisation.
The Bigger Picture: Kelly’s Leadership Strategy
Craig Kelly’s decision to create and appoint Hoskin-Elliott to this new hybrid position is also indicative of a larger cultural shift happening at Collingwood. Known for his no-nonsense approach, Kelly has been vocal about the need for AFL clubs to better support player development both during and after their playing careers.
“Footy clubs should be places of growth, not just performance,” Kelly stated. “We want to make sure that players are evolving as people, not just athletes. Will’s new role is one part of that vision.”
It’s a refreshing take in an industry that often discards players once their physical peak is past. In contrast, Collingwood’s leadership appears to be setting a precedent for more holistic player management.
Fan Reaction and Club Morale
Fan response to the announcement has been overwhelmingly positive. On social media, Collingwood supporters have praised the move, describing it as “smart,” “forward-thinking,” and “deserved.”
One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “Hoskin-Elliott might not be the flashiest player, but he’s Collingwood through and through. Great to see the club investing in people who live the values.”
Internally, the mood is similarly buoyant. Sources within the club report that morale among the playing group is high, with many of the younger players already gravitating toward Hoskin-Elliott for advice and support.
What’s Next?
While he’ll continue to pull on the guernsey in 2025, it’s clear that Will Hoskin-Elliott’s career is entering a new phase. Whether or not this new role extends beyond his playing days remains to be seen, but all signs point to Collingwood investing in him for the long haul.
As the Magpies prepare for the 2025 season with premiership ambitions still burning bright, having a player like Hoskin-Elliott in a formal leadership role adds another layer of strength to an already well-drilled unit.
In an age where loyalty and long-term thinking are often secondary to short-term wins, Collingwood’s move to elevate Hoskin-Elliott sets an example for the league – and gives one of its most humble servants the recognition he richly deserves.
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