In a major development at the Holden Centre, Collingwood Football Club has confirmed the departure of Head of Development Josh Fraser, paving the way for the return of club legend Neil Price, who will take the reins as the new Head of Player Development.
The announcement, made Friday morning, marks a significant shift in the club’s developmental strategy as they look to reinvigorate their player pathway programs and deepen the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent from within.
Fraser, who served in the role for three years, played a pivotal role in building Collingwood’s current developmental framework, overseeing the growth of several rising stars now embedded in the senior team. His departure is said to be on mutual terms, with Fraser expressing gratitude for the opportunity and signalling an openness to explore new challenges in coaching and football operations.
“It’s been an honour to serve this club in a role that’s so vital to its future,” Fraser said in a statement. “I leave with pride in what we’ve built and deep respect for the players and staff I’ve worked with.”
But the spotlight now shifts to Neil Price, a revered figure in Collingwood history who returns to the black and white after more than a decade away from the club. A former premiership player and one-time assistant coach, Price brings with him a wealth of experience in elite talent development, most recently serving in a high-performance role with the AFL Academy.
Speaking on his return, Price expressed both excitement and humility.
“This club has always felt like home,” Price said. “To be asked to come back and help shape the next generation of Magpies is a responsibility I don’t take lightly. There’s incredible talent here — my job is to help them grow, not just as athletes, but as leaders.”
Collingwood’s GM of Football, Graham Wright, welcomed Price back to the club, emphasising his deep understanding of Collingwood culture and his proven track record in player development.
“Neil is a Collingwood person through and through. He understands what it takes to wear the jumper, and he knows how to bring the best out of young footballers,” Wright said. “As we look to the future, his experience and leadership will be invaluable.”
Price is expected to begin his new role immediately, with a focus on off-season planning, player reviews, and integration with the VFL program. His appointment is seen as both a strategic move and a symbolic one — reinforcing the club’s belief in building from within and honouring its storied past while preparing for the next chapter.
More updates are expected in the coming days as the Magpies prepare for trade season and finalise changes to their football department.
