In a shocking development that has sent ripples across the AFL world, ESPN has confirmed that Craig McRae, the highly respected head coach of the Collingwood Football Club, has officially stepped down from his role following a significant error that has rocked the club internally.
The announcement came just minutes ago in a press release issued by the club, marking a stunning turn of events for the reigning premiership coach, who led the Magpies to the 2023 AFL Premiership and had been widely credited for revitalising the team’s culture and on-field performance.
A Sudden and Unexpected Resignation
According to sources close to the situation, McRaeโs decision to step down stems from what has been described as a โserious internal issueโ that arose in recent weeks โ reportedly involving a breach of club protocols and a critical miscommunication regarding player management and team integrity.
While the exact nature of the error has not yet been fully disclosed, it is believed to involve a personnel decision that significantly impacted player trust and internal operations. The issue reportedly escalated during the clubโs recent internal review, prompting urgent discussions at board level.
In a brief but emotional statement, Craig McRae addressed the situation:
โThis has been an extremely difficult decision, but one I believe is in the best interest of the club. I take full responsibility for the error that occurred under my leadership. Collingwood means the world to me, and I want to ensure that the standards weโve worked so hard to build are preserved moving forward.โ
Club Response
Collingwood President Jeff Browne and CEO Craig Kelly fronted the media shortly after the announcement, confirming McRaeโs resignation and addressing the significance of the incident.
โCraig has been an incredible servant of this football club,โ Browne said. โHis leadership over the past few seasons brought us success, unity, and pride. However, we acknowledge the seriousness of what occurred and respect Craigโs decision to take accountability.โ
While details remain limited due to the ongoing internal review, the club made clear that McRae was not under investigation for any criminal or ethical misconduct, but rather a professional oversight that had broader implications for team dynamics and operational structure.
Reaction from Players and Fans
The news has stunned players and fans alike. McRae, affectionately known as โFly,โ has been one of the most admired figures in recent AFL history for his calm demeanor, player-first approach, and strategic nous.
Several players have expressed their gratitude and heartbreak on social media. Captain Darcy Moore posted:
โAbsolutely gutted. Fly has been more than a coach โ heโs been a mentor and a leader. We owe him so much.โ
Supporters flooded the clubโs social media pages with messages of shock, support, and concern, many pleading for more transparency and questioning what could have gone so wrong for such a dramatic exit to occur.
Interim Plans and Whatโs Next
The Collingwood Football Club has confirmed that assistant coach Hayden Skipworth will serve as interim head coach while the search for a permanent replacement begins.
There is growing speculation that the club may accelerate discussions with external coaching candidates, though it is likely that no formal announcement will be made until the conclusion of the 2025 season.
As for McRae, sources say he will take time away from football to reflect and reset, but a return to coaching in the future is not out of the question.
โI still love this game, and I believe in its power to teach and heal,โ McRae said. โRight now, I need to step back โ but Iโll always be a part of the Collingwood family.โ
Final Thoughts
Craig McRaeโs sudden resignation brings an end to one of the most successful recent chapters in Collingwood history โ and opens up serious questions about internal processes, accountability, and leadership in elite sport.
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