**SHOCKING NEWS: Collingwood Coach Craig McRae Announces His Emergency Resignation Due to Personal Reasons**
**March 15, 2025**
In an unexpected and stunning turn of events, Craig McRae, the head coach of the Collingwood Magpies, has announced his emergency resignation effective immediately. The news has sent shockwaves through the Australian Football League (AFL), leaving fans, players, and staff members in disbelief. McRae, who took over as Collingwood’s head coach in 2022 and led the team to incredible success, including a thrilling Grand Final appearance in 2023, made the announcement in a statement released this afternoon.
The resignation has raised many questions, with McRae citing “personal reasons” for his decision. Details surrounding the nature of these personal matters remain unclear, but his sudden departure has left a major gap in one of the AFL’s most iconic clubs at a critical juncture in the season.
### McRae’s Rapid Rise and Success at Collingwood
Craig McRae took the reins of Collingwood in 2022 following the departure of previous coach Nathan Buckley. McRae’s appointment was met with high expectations, but he quickly demonstrated his coaching acumen, leading the team to an AFL Grand Final in just his second year in charge. His leadership was lauded for revitalizing the team’s playing style, building an exciting, fast-paced brand of footy, and fostering a strong sense of unity among the players.
Under McRae’s guidance, Collingwood became one of the most competitive and dynamic teams in the league. His ability to connect with players, instill confidence, and make crucial in-game decisions earned him widespread praise, and he became a fan favorite for his charismatic personality and tactical brilliance. Many viewed McRae as the future of the club, and his success story seemed set to continue with another promising season ahead.
In 2024, Collingwood finished the season near the top of the ladder, reinforcing McRae’s reputation as one of the AFL’s brightest coaching minds. His work in developing young talent and guiding veterans to peak form had positioned Collingwood as a legitimate premiership contender.
### The Resignation Announcement
The shocking news of McRae’s resignation was made public through an official statement from Collingwood Football Club. The club confirmed that McRae had stepped down due to personal reasons, though no further details were provided. In his statement, McRae expressed his deep regret in having to leave the club at this time.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce my immediate resignation as head coach of the Collingwood Football Club,” McRae said. “This decision comes after much reflection, and while I have always given my all to this team, I must now step away to focus on personal matters that require my full attention. I want to thank everyone at the club—from the players and coaching staff to the incredible fans—for their unwavering support. I will always hold Collingwood close to my heart.”
Collingwood’s president, Mark Korda, also issued a statement acknowledging McRae’s contribution to the club.
“Craig McRae has been an outstanding coach for the Collingwood Football Club, and we are incredibly grateful for everything he has done for the team. His leadership has brought us to new heights, and while we are disappointed by his decision to step away, we respect his need to focus on personal matters. Craig will always be a part of the Collingwood family, and we wish him all the best during this time.”
### What Led to the Resignation?
The exact reasons behind McRae’s resignation are currently unclear, but there are growing speculations about the personal challenges he may be facing. While the official statement mentioned “personal matters,” sources close to the club have suggested that McRae may be dealing with serious family issues, health concerns, or other private matters that require his undivided attention.
It is worth noting that McRae’s tenure at Collingwood was marked by high-pressure expectations and the constant scrutiny that comes with being the head coach of such a high-profile team. The emotional and mental toll of coaching in the AFL, combined with the challenges of managing a top-level football team, may have led McRae to make the difficult decision to step away.
Though McRae’s resignation was a surprise to many, the club has expressed full support for the coach during this difficult period. Those who know McRae well have noted his commitment to the players and staff, and it is clear that his decision to resign was not made lightly.
### Immediate Fallout and Interim Leadership
Collingwood’s immediate focus now turns to ensuring a smooth transition as the club deals with McRae’s sudden departure. With the AFL season already in full swing, the timing of McRae’s resignation leaves the club facing an unexpected leadership vacuum.
In response, Collingwood has named assistant coach and former player, Justin Leppitsch, as the interim head coach. Leppitsch, who has extensive experience in the AFL as both a player and assistant coach, is expected to take over the role temporarily while the club searches for a permanent solution. Leppitsch has been with Collingwood since 2022 and is familiar with the team’s structure and style of play.
“We are fortunate to have someone like Justin Leppitsch to step in as interim head coach. His knowledge of the game and experience in the AFL will be invaluable as we navigate this challenging time,” said Mark Korda. “We will fully support Justin and the team as we move forward, and we are committed to maintaining the high standards that Craig McRae set for us.”
Leppitsch, who had a successful playing career with the Brisbane Lions and has been coaching at various levels since his retirement, will face a huge challenge in maintaining Collingwood’s momentum as the club works through this transition.
### The Future of Collingwood Under Leppitsch
While Justin Leppitsch is a respected figure within the AFL, stepping into the role of head coach in the midst of a season will always present challenges. Collingwood fans, who had grown accustomed to McRae’s leadership and the excitement his team brought to the field, are understandably anxious about what lies ahead for the club.
Leppitsch’s immediate goal will be to keep the team focused and united, ensuring that Collingwood remains a strong contender in the AFL. While the change in leadership is disruptive, the players will need to rally behind their new interim coach and adapt to any tactical changes that Leppitsch may implement.
One of the key tasks facing Leppitsch will be to maintain the club’s strong team culture, which McRae worked hard to build. The foundation McRae laid—focused on strong defensive structures, fast ball movement, and a resilient mindset—will likely remain in place, but how Leppitsch adapts the team to his own coaching style will be closely watched.
### The Impact on Collingwood’s Season
As the AFL season progresses, Collingwood’s ability to cope with the sudden loss of their head coach will be tested. The team had started the 2025 season with high hopes, and McRae’s departure has thrown their prospects into question. With a strong squad and a talented roster, Collingwood is still a team that can challenge for the finals, but how they respond to this leadership shake-up will be key.
The upcoming weeks will be crucial for the Magpies as they navigate the uncertainty surrounding their coaching situation. While McRae’s resignation has cast a shadow over the club, Collingwood will need to quickly adapt and stay focused on the game at hand.
The support of the fans and the broader Collingwood community will also play an important role during this challenging time. Fans who were devastated by the loss of McRae are hoping the team will rally together and continue to perform at a high level.
### Mental Health and the Pressures of AFL Coaching
McRae’s resignation brings attention to the mental and emotional toll that coaching at the highest level can have on individuals. The pressures of leading a high-profile AFL team, combined with the personal challenges that coaches may face, have become an increasingly significant issue in recent years. The rigorous demands of managing a professional football team, dealing with media scrutiny, and balancing personal life can be overwhelming for even the most experienced coaches.
McRae’s decision to step away from Collingwood may serve as a reminder of the importance of mental health and well-being, both for players and coaches. The stresses of coaching at an elite level can often be underestimated, and the support systems in place for coaches must be strengthened.
### What’s Next for Collingwood?
For now, Collingwood is in a state of transition, but the club has a rich history and a passionate fanbase that will continue to support the team through this uncertain period. The search for a permanent head coach will likely begin once the season concludes, but in the meantime, Justin Leppitsch will have the difficult task of guiding the team through the rest of 2025.
With the AFL season now in full swing, Collingwood’s performance on the field will be under even more scrutiny, but the team’s resilience and commitment to the club’s values will be crucial in determining how they respond to this leadership change.
As for Craig McRae, fans and colleagues alike are sending their best wishes and support as he focuses on his personal matters. Whatever the future holds for McRae, his legacy at Collingwood will not be forgotten, and he will always be remembered for the incredible impact he made during his time with the club.
