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**Sad News: Collingwood Football Head Coach Craig McRae Fired Amidst Team Struggles and Internal Issues**
**March 7, 2025**
In a stunning and heartbreaking move for the Collingwood Football Club, the club has announced that head coach Craig McRae has been relieved of his duties following a series of disappointing results and growing concerns over internal team dynamics. The decision, which took the football world by surprise, comes amidst what many are calling an underwhelming season for the Magpies.
McRae, who took over as head coach of Collingwood in 2021, had been seen as a promising figure for the team. The former player and assistant coach was celebrated for his ability to connect with players and his tactical acumen. Under McRae’s leadership, Collingwood reached the finals in 2022, which raised hopes for a sustained period of success. However, the recent downturn in form, coupled with off-field controversies, ultimately led to McRae’s exit from the club.
### The Struggles Under McRae’s Leadership
Despite some early success, the Collingwood Football Club has faced a series of challenges during McRae’s tenure. The club has struggled to maintain consistent performances, with several key players underperforming and the team failing to deliver on the high expectations that were set following their strong run in 2022.
Collingwood’s recent performances have been particularly concerning. The club has failed to secure victories in key matches, with their disappointing results in the opening rounds of the 2025 season proving to be the final straw for the club’s administration. The Magpies have struggled with injuries to key players, and team morale has reportedly been low, with tensions within the squad and staff becoming increasingly apparent.
### Internal Team Issues and Management Concerns
Sources close to the club have indicated that McRae’s firing is not only the result of the team’s poor on-field performances but also due to issues with team culture and internal dynamics. There have been reports of disagreements between McRae and certain senior players, as well as concerns from club management over the team’s inability to execute game plans effectively.
The club’s administration, led by President Mark Korda and Chief Executive Officer Craig Kelly, reportedly conducted an internal review after the team’s recent run of poor form. The review found that while McRae had the respect of his players, there were serious concerns about the team’s cohesion and tactical discipline. Additionally, McRae’s handling of some controversial off-field situations, including player discipline issues, contributed to the decision to part ways.
“We would like to thank Craig McRae for his commitment and dedication to Collingwood Football Club over the past few years. Under his guidance, the team achieved some positive milestones. However, after careful consideration, the decision has been made to move in a new direction,” said Mark Korda, Collingwood’s president, in a statement.
### A Promising Start, But Unmet Expectations
Craig McRae’s appointment as head coach was initially met with excitement, as he was seen as a fresh and dynamic voice for the club. McRae had previously enjoyed a successful career as an assistant coach at Richmond, where he helped the Tigers to multiple premierships. His appointment to Collingwood was seen as an opportunity to bring renewed energy and focus to a team that had struggled to find sustained success in recent years.
The 2022 season under McRae saw Collingwood return to finals contention, with the team finishing in the top eight and showing promise in high-pressure matches. The Magpies played an exciting brand of football under McRae, with a focus on fast ball movement and high pressure. However, despite this positive momentum, Collingwood was unable to carry that form into subsequent seasons.
The 2023 and 2024 seasons were marked by inconsistency, and the Magpies’ performances in crucial matches were disappointing. Although they had flashes of brilliance, Collingwood’s inability to consistently compete with the league’s top teams put McRae’s job under increasing scrutiny.
### Reactions from Fans and the AFL Community
News of McRae’s firing has left many fans and members of the AFL community shocked. While some have been critical of his coaching methods, others have expressed sympathy, citing the club’s injury woes and a lack of resources as factors beyond McRae’s control.
“I think Craig McRae did the best with what he had. There were moments of brilliance, but it was clear there were deeper issues in the team that weren’t his fault,” said a long-time Collingwood supporter. “It’s disappointing to see him go, but I guess the club feels they need a change to move forward.”
Others, however, have pointed out that Collingwood’s expectations of immediate success may have been unrealistic, especially considering the club’s rebuilding phase and the nature of AFL competition, where even the top teams face periods of struggle.
### What’s Next for Collingwood?
Collingwood now faces the critical task of finding McRae’s successor in what promises to be a highly scrutinized coaching search. The club will likely seek a coach who can provide stability, boost team morale, and implement a clear tactical framework to help the team contend for top honors once again.
Names of potential candidates are already circulating, including some experienced coaches with a proven track record in the AFL. Internal candidates may also be considered for the role, as Collingwood looks for continuity amid this transition. The club will likely prioritize a candidate who can inspire the playing group and restore belief among fans and stakeholders.
The decision to move on from McRae, while difficult, signals Collingwood’s desire to get back to the top of the AFL hierarchy. The team’s future success will depend heavily on the next appointment and the strategic decisions made in the coming months.
### A Future Beyond Collingwood for McRae?
While Craig McRae’s departure from Collingwood is undoubtedly a setback for him personally, his coaching abilities and experience are likely to make him an attractive candidate for other AFL clubs looking to make a change in their coaching ranks. McRae’s experience with Richmond’s premiership-winning program and his brief yet impactful tenure at Collingwood suggest that he is still a respected figure in the coaching community.
Many believe that McRae will eventually find another opportunity, whether it be at another AFL club or in another coaching capacity within the sport. His ability to build strong relationships with players and his understanding of the modern game will likely ensure that he remains in demand in the future.
### Final Thoughts
Craig McRae’s firing marks the end of an era for Collingwood Football Club, one that began with great optimism but ultimately ended in disappointment. While McRae’s tenure was marked by a promising start and some high points, the club’s struggles in recent seasons, coupled with internal issues, led to the decision for a change in direction.
As Collingwood moves forward with a new coach, they will hope to restore the club to its former glory, bringing success and stability to a team that has had its fair share of ups and downs in recent years. For McRae, the road ahead is uncertain, but with his wealth of experience and knowledge of the game, he will likely have many opportunities to continue his coaching career elsewhere in the AFL.
This is a sad day for both Collingwood supporters and McRae, but in the world of professional sports, change is sometimes necessary to spark new beginnings. The Magpies will now look to the future, with the hopes that their next chapter will bring them back to their rightful place among the AFL’s elite.
