In a stunning continuation of form, Collingwood Football Club’s head coach **Craig McRae** is proving once again why he’s In a stunning continuation of form, Collingwood Football Club’s head coach **Craig McRae** is proving once again why he’sregarded as one of the most influential figures in modern AFL coaching. After leading the Magpies to back-to-back dominant performances in recent weeks, fans and pundits alike are proclaiming that McRae is “on fire” — and rightly so.
Under his leadership, Collingwood has soared to the top of the AFL ladder once again this season. With a well-drilled game plan, elite player development, and an unwavering focus on culture and resilience, McRae’s coaching style has reinvigorated the club and its massive supporter base.
In recent weeks, McRae has displayed coaching brilliance, outmaneuvering some of the league’s most seasoned coaches. His strategic adjustments during halftime have become a hallmark of his success. Against Geelong last weekend, Collingwood overturned a 22-point deficit to win convincingly, showcasing tactical flexibility and mental toughness — trademarks of the McRae era.
“He’s not just coaching players — he’s building leaders,” said AFL analyst David King. “You watch how the team responds in pressure moments, and you know that’s a reflection of McRae’s calm but commanding influence
McRae already etched his name into Collingwood history by securing the 2023 premiership in just his second year as senior coach. Now, with the Magpies currently on an eight-game winning streak and eyeing another finals run, talk of a potential dynasty is heating up.
What’s more impressive is McRae’s ability to get the best out of young talent. Rising stars like Nick Daicos, Fin Macrae, and Reef McInnes are thriving under his guidance, while veterans like Scott Pendlebury and Steele Sidebottom continue to play critical roles.
Beyond the boundary, McRae has redefined Collingwood’s identity. Once plagued by controversy and inconsistency, the club is now viewed as a standard-bearer for culture, humility, and unity — values McRae emphasizes consistently.
In press conferences, McRae is measured, positive, and insightful, often deflecting praise to his players and staff. But it’s clear: his fingerprints are all over Collingwood’s resurgence
With finals just around the corner, the real test awaits. Can McRae guide the Pies to another premiership and cement his legacy as one of the AFL’s greats? If recent form is any indication, the answer might very well be yese
