Collingwood Football Club head coach Craig McRae has officially announced his retirement and explained his decision…McRae began by expressing his gratitude to Collingwood, acknowledging the trust placed in him to lead one of the AFL’s most iconic clubs. “It’s been the privilege of a lifetime to coach the Magpies,” he said. “From the day I walked through the doors, I felt the weight of history and the passion of the fans. Every training session, every game, and every season has been about giving back to this incredible club.” His words underscored the deep bond he developed with Collingwood and its supporters, who embraced his coaching philosophy of resilience, teamwork, and humility.
Explaining his decision to retire, McRae pointed first to the demands of the job. Coaching at the AFL level requires enormous dedication, with long hours, relentless media attention, and the constant pressure to succeed. While he acknowledged the thrill of competition and the satisfaction of building a winning culture, McRae admitted that the intensity of the role had taken its toll. “I’ve poured everything I have into this role, and now I need to step back and refocus on my family, my health, and the next phase of my life,” he said.
Family played a central role in his decision. McRae became emotional when speaking about the sacrifices made by his loved ones throughout his coaching career. “They’ve stood by me through the highs and lows, and it’s time I give more of myself back to them. My daughter is growing up fast, and I don’t want to miss those moments that matter most.” His comments reflected the personal cost of elite coaching, where the pursuit of excellence often comes at the expense of time with family.
McRae also emphasized that his retirement does not mean stepping away from football entirely. While he will no longer patrol the sidelines as Collingwood’s head coach, he intends to remain involved in the sport in some capacity—whether through mentoring young players, supporting grassroots development, or contributing to the broader AFL community. His passion for the game, he assured, remains as strong as ever.
During his tenure, McRae not only guided Collingwood to on-field success but also reshaped its culture. Known for his calm demeanor and innovative strategies, he built a team defined by unity, discipline, and belief. Players often spoke of his ability to connect with them on a personal level, describing him as both a mentor and a motivator. His leadership was instrumental in restoring pride to the club and inspiring confidence among its fanbase.
As the news of his retirement spread, tributes poured in from across the AFL community. Rival coaches, former teammates, and Collingwood legends praised McRae for his professionalism, character, and unwavering commitment to the game. For the Magpies, his departure marks the end of an era, but the foundation he has laid will continue to guide the club into the future.
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