In a move that has sent shockwaves through the AFL community, the Collingwood Magpies have officially announced plans to alter their iconic black and white striped guernseys for the upcoming season, opting for a bold and unexpected new look—neon green and pink.
The announcement, which came via a press release this morning, has stunned fans, pundits, and former players alike, all of whom have long associated the club’s identity with its traditional black and white stripes. The decision marks one of the most dramatic changes in AFL club history and raises questions about the direction Collingwood is taking as they prepare for the new season.
The New Look: Neon Green and Pink
The Magpies’ new guernsey design, which has already been revealed on the club’s official social media channels, features neon green and pink as the primary colors. The once-proud black and white stripes have been replaced with bold, vibrant diagonal patterns of neon green running across the torso, with contrasting neon pink highlights on the sleeves and collar. The club’s traditional “Pies” logo has also been reworked, incorporating the neon color scheme into its design.
“This is a bold new direction for the club, and we are excited to embrace a more modern, dynamic identity,” said Collingwood President Jeff Browne in the statement. “We recognize the deep love our supporters have for the traditional black and white stripes, but we believe it’s time for change. The neon colors represent the vibrancy and energy of our team, and we’re confident it will resonate with both our loyal fans and the next generation of supporters.”
Shock and Disbelief Among Fans
While the announcement has been met with excitement from some fans who appreciate the club’s willingness to embrace change, many longtime supporters have expressed shock and disappointment at the decision. Social media has erupted with a mixture of confusion, anger, and disbelief as fans try to come to terms with the sudden and radical change to their team’s iconic look.
“I don’t know what to say,” tweeted one long-time Collingwood fan. “The black and white stripes are Collingwood. Changing that is like changing the club’s soul. Neon green and pink just doesn’t feel right.”
“I can’t believe they’re doing this. I’ve been a Collingwood supporter for over 40 years, and this is just… not what I signed up for,” posted another fan. “It feels like a gimmick. This is supposed to be a traditional club, not a fashion statement.”
Despite the backlash, some fans have shown their support, excited about the fresh take on an age-old design. “I think it’s great they’re trying something new and pushing the boundaries,” one supporter commented. “We’ve got to evolve with the times. I’m looking forward to seeing how the players look in these new kits!”
Why the Change?
The decision to revamp the iconic black-and-white guernsey came after months of internal discussions within the Collingwood Football Club. While many supporters expected a more subtle redesign or retro throwback, the club’s leadership opted for a more dramatic departure from tradition in an effort to signal a new era for the Magpies both on and off the field.
“The game is evolving, and so are we,” said Collingwood coach Craig McRae. “We wanted to reflect that energy, the excitement we’re bringing into this season. Neon green and pink are vibrant colors that stand for vitality, progress, and innovation—all qualities we want to embody as a team. It’s a statement about the future.”
This change also coincides with Collingwood’s broader marketing and branding campaign, aimed at attracting younger fans, including those in the Gen Z demographic who are often drawn to bold, unconventional designs.
“We’re embracing a new era of Collingwood,” added Browne. “This is about making our mark, being recognized, and reaching new audiences. We’re confident that the boldness of this new look will capture the attention of fans both old and new.”
A Break from Tradition
Collingwood’s black and white stripes have been a symbol of the club’s identity since its formation in 1892. The pattern became synonymous with the team’s grit, determination, and rich history, and it’s been a hallmark of their jerseys for generations. The sudden shift to neon green and pink represents a stark departure from this tradition, which has left many questioning if this is truly the right move for the Magpies, a club whose rich history is intertwined with its iconic uniform.
“This is not just about a jersey; it’s about our identity as a club,” said Collingwood legend Nathan Buckley, who captained the team for over a decade. “The black and white stripes represent so much more than a simple design—they represent our history, our tradition, and the passion of our supporters. I’m not sure what the future holds with this change, but it will be fascinating to see how the team adapts.”
Will the Neon Stripes Work?
While the shift in color palette may have divided opinions, the real test will be how the team performs on the field while wearing the new look. Will the new jerseys become a symbol of a new, more energized Collingwood Magpies, or will they become a permanent point of contention for the club’s die-hard fans?
The decision to roll out this neon design also raises questions about its impact on future merchandise sales, marketing campaigns, and fan engagement. While some traditionalists may be put off by the change, others may embrace it, especially if the team performs well in the new jerseys.
It’s also possible that the club may use the neon guernseys for select matches or as part of a special marketing campaign, which could help to lessen the blow for fans who are resistant to such a radical change.
Looking Ahead to the Season
Regardless of the reactions, the new neon green and pink guernseys are sure to generate conversation throughout the season. The Magpies’ first outing in the new kits will undoubtedly be highly anticipated, as both supporters and critics eagerly await how the team fares in this bold new chapter.
As Collingwood gears up for the upcoming season, one thing is for sure: the club is ready to make waves—both on and off the field. Whether the neon stripes will become a new symbol of success or a controversial chapter in the club’s history remains to be seen, but the Magpies are undoubtedly embracing the future with a fresh and fearless approach.
Will the neon glow bring the Magpies into a new era of dominance, or will it fade away as a short-lived experiment? The AFL world will be watching closely to find out.
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