Collingwood Football Club has officially announced a major move today, confirming that head coach Craig McRae has signed a four-year contract extension, keeping him at the helm until the end of the 2028 season. The deal secures McRae’s future with the club after a period of impressive success, reinforcing Collingwood’s confidence in his leadership and vision for the team.
McRae, who took over as Collingwood’s senior coach in 2022, quickly established himself as a transformative figure within the club. Under his leadership, the Magpies experienced a dramatic turnaround, finishing third in the AFL home-and-away season and making a deep finals push. His tactical acumen, innovative strategies, and ability to connect with players have been central to Collingwood’s resurgence, with fans and analysts alike praising his fresh approach to coaching.
In a statement released by the club, Collingwood president Jeff Browne expressed immense satisfaction with the extension, stating, “Craig has brought an exceptional level of leadership, energy, and tactical insight to Collingwood. His ability to inspire and develop players both on and off the field has been integral to our recent success. We are thrilled that he will continue to lead us into the future and build on the strong foundations he has laid.”
McRae’s first season at Collingwood was marked by both thrilling victories and significant growth in the team’s resilience. The Magpies’ remarkable comeback wins became a hallmark of McRae’s tenure, exemplifying his belief in playing an attacking, high-pressure style of football. His strong relationships with the players, paired with a deep understanding of the modern game, have created a winning culture that has resonated throughout the club.
Speaking about the contract extension, McRae expressed his gratitude and excitement for the future, saying, “It’s an honor to be able to continue working with such a talented group of players, staff, and the passionate Collingwood fanbase. The club has a rich history, and I’m excited to help guide the team to even greater success in the years ahead. This is just the beginning, and I’m looking forward to the journey we’ll undertake together.”
As Collingwood fans celebrate the news, the pressure is now on McRae to continue delivering on the field. The extension solidifies his position as one of the AFL’s most promising coaches and sets the stage for an exciting future for the Magpies. With McRae at the helm, Collingwood’s ambitious quest for more AFL premierships remains firmly within reach.
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