The Collingwood Football Club community is buzzing with excitement and pride after Head Coach Craig McRae officially announced that star key defender Darcy Moore has been appointed as the new captain of the Magpies. The move is being heralded as the dawn of a new era, not only for the team but for the club’s broader AFL ambitions.
Darcy Moore, son of Collingwood great Peter Moore, now steps into a leadership role that carries enormous responsibility — and opportunity. His appointment has been met with overwhelming positivity from fans, players, and former legends of the club alike, who see Moore as the ideal embodiment of the club’s values and direction.
A Natural Leader On and Off the Field
Moore’s journey to the captaincy has been one marked by resilience, professionalism, and an unshakeable commitment to the black and white. Since being drafted by the club in 2014, the 29-year-old has consistently demonstrated leadership qualities through his calm demeanor, strong voice on the field, and his ability to bring out the best in his teammates.
Known for his elite intercept marking and tactical awareness, Moore has become one of the AFL’s premier defenders over the past several seasons. His performances have not only earned him All-Australian honors but also the respect of the entire league. However, it is his humility, intelligence, and team-first mentality that have truly set him apart in the eyes of Coach McRae.
“Darcy represents everything we want in a Collingwood player — courage, integrity, and a deep understanding of what it means to be part of this club,” McRae said during the official announcement. “He leads by example every day and is deeply respected by the playing group. There’s no one more deserving.”
A New Chapter in Magpie History
The announcement marks a significant transition as Moore takes over the captaincy from Scott Pendlebury, one of the most decorated and respected leaders in AFL history. Pendlebury, who led the team with distinction for over a decade, expressed full confidence in Moore’s ability to take the reins.
“I couldn’t be happier for Darcy,” Pendlebury said. “He’s grown into a phenomenal leader. The club is in great hands moving forward.”
Fans have also warmly welcomed the news, seeing Moore as someone who bridges the past and future of the club. His father Peter Moore captained Collingwood in the late 1970s and early 1980s, making the current appointment a historic one — the first time a father-son duo has both captained the Magpies.
Building Towards Another Premiership Tilt
Moore’s captaincy comes at a crucial time for Collingwood, who are looking to build on their recent resurgence under McRae. After a rollercoaster few seasons, the Magpies re-established themselves as a top-tier team in the league and are widely considered serious premiership contenders.
With Moore now officially leading the group, expectations are sky-high. His ability to inspire and unite players across all lines of the field is seen as a major asset in the club’s quest for its next AFL premiership.
“It’s an incredible honour,” Moore said in his first address as captain. “I’ve grown up with this club in my blood, and to be given the opportunity to lead this group is something I’ll cherish forever. We have a special team, and I believe we’re capable of achieving great things together.”
A Symbol of Hope and Unity
In a time when leadership both on and off the field is more critical than ever, the appointment of Darcy Moore has given the Collingwood faithful a reason to believe. Supporters are already calling it the best news of the season — and perhaps the catalyst that could carry them all the way to grand final glory.
“This is the best news we could hope for,” said lifelong fan Michelle Turner. “Darcy isn’t just a great player — he’s Collingwood through and through.”
As the 2025 AFL season approaches, all eyes will be on Moore and his Magpies. With a new captain at the helm, the black and white army marches forward — united, inspired, and ready to chase greatness once more.
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