AFL STUNNER: Craig McRae Announces Resignation Date Following Personal Message From Nathan Buckley Concerning
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the AFL community, Collingwood head coach Craig McRae has announced he will step down at the end of the 2025 season. The decision comes after a deeply personal message from former Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley, which reportedly prompted McRae to reflect on his future and legacy.
McRae, who led the Magpies to a drought-breaking premiership in 2023, made the announcement at a packed press conference at the AIA Centre this morning. Flanked by club president Jeff Browne and football boss Graham Wright, McRae appeared composed but emotional as he revealed the motivations behind his decision.
“This has been the most rewarding chapter of my professional life,” McRae began. “But after deep personal reflection and a heartfelt conversation with a mentor and mate in Nathan, I’ve decided it’s time for someone else to lead this proud club into the next era.
Sources close to the club say Buckley, who coached Collingwood from 2012 to 2021, reached out to McRae in recent weeks with a message that was “more personal than tactical.” Though the contents of the conversation remain private, it is understood that Buckley spoke candidly about the toll of coaching at the elite level, family, and life beyond football — themes that resonated strongly with McRae, who recently became a father for the second time.
“This job is all-consuming,” McRae acknowledged. “And sometimes you don’t realise what it’s costing you until someone holds up a mirror. Nathan did that for me. He reminded me that we’re more than just coaches — we’re dads, husbands, mates.
McRae, 51, took the reins in 2022 following Buckley’s resignation during a turbulent 2021 season. In just his second year, he turned Collingwood into a premiership-winning side renowned for its daring style and unbreakable belief. Under his watch, young stars like Nick Daicos, Jack Ginnivan, and Darcy Moore flourished.
Collingwood’s resurgence under McRae captured the hearts of fans across the league, and the coach himself became a cult figure for his calm demeanour, positive messaging, and sharp football mind.
“It’s hard to put into words what Craig has done for this club,” said club president Jeff Browne. “He brought belief, culture, and unity. His impact will be felt for decades.
While McRae will remain in charge until the end of the 2025 season, speculation is already mounting over who could succeed him. Assistant coaches Brendon Bolton and Hayden Skipworth are considered strong internal candidates, while names like Adam Kingsley and Blake Caracella are being floated externally.
In a statement posted to social media shortly after the announcement, Nathan Buckley paid tribute to McRae: “Fly is a great coach, but an even better human. Proud of the legacy he’s built and humbled to have shared a moment that helped guide this decision.
The announcement has been met with an outpouring of support from the AFL community. Former players, coaches, and fans alike took to social media to thank McRae for his service and leadership.
Despite stepping away from senior coaching, McRae hinted that his time in football is far from over. “I’m not disappearing,” he said with a smile. “I still love this game. I’ll be around it in some way, shape, or form — just not in the big chair anymore.
For now, Collingwood’s focus turns to finishing the season strongly and giving their coach the farewell he deserves. As the Magpie Army prepares for an emotional send-off, one thing is certain: Craig McRae’s name is etched into the fabric of the club’s storied history.
