DEVASTATING NEWS :Collingwood Boss Craig McRae Announces Departure: AFL World Shocked by Sudden EXIT.

**Collingwood Boss Craig McRae Announces Departure: AFL World Shocked by Sudden Exit**

In a surprising turn of events, Collingwood Football Club’s head coach Craig McRae has announced his departure from the club, just months after guiding the Magpies to one of their most successful seasons in recent memory. The announcement has left the AFL world reeling, as McRae, who was instrumental in leading the club to the 2023 premiership, has decided to step down from his role effective immediately.

McRae’s departure comes as a shock to both Collingwood fans and the broader AFL community, given his swift and remarkable impact since taking over as head coach in 2022. Known for his calm demeanour, tactical brilliance, and ability to get the best out of his players, McRae’s exit leaves a significant void at the club as they look to build on recent successes.

### A Stellar Tenure

Craig McRae’s tenure at Collingwood may have been brief, but it was undeniably impactful. When he took the reins in 2022, the Magpies were struggling, having finished 17th on the ladder in the previous season. However, under McRae’s leadership, the team underwent a dramatic transformation. His emphasis on fast-paced, attacking football, combined with a strong focus on team unity and culture, quickly turned the club into a contender.

In his first season as head coach, McRae led Collingwood to a top-four finish and a preliminary final berth, marking a stunning turnaround. But it was in 2023 that his vision for the team came to full fruition. The Magpies, under his guidance, secured the minor premiership and went on to win the AFL Grand Final, delivering the club its first premiership since 2010. McRae’s tactical nous, along with his ability to develop young talent and manage veterans, made him one of the most respected figures in the AFL coaching ranks.

### The Reasons Behind His Departure

McRae’s decision to step down has been met with widespread speculation, as the coach had just achieved the pinnacle of success with Collingwood. In a statement, McRae cited personal reasons for his departure, expressing gratitude to the club, the players, and the fans for their support during his time at the helm.

“This has been an incredibly difficult decision, but after much reflection, I feel that now is the right time for me to step away,” McRae said in a press conference. “The last two years have been an extraordinary journey, and I am immensely proud of what we’ve achieved together. However, there are personal factors that I need to prioritize at this point in my life. I leave knowing that Collingwood is in a strong position for the future.”

While McRae did not elaborate further on his personal reasons, sources close to the club have suggested that the demands of the role, combined with a desire to spend more time with his family, may have influenced his decision.

Collingwood CEO Mark Anderson expressed his disappointment but also his admiration for McRae’s contributions. “Craig has been an exceptional leader for our football club. His work ethic, his integrity, and his vision for Collingwood have been transformative. While we are saddened to see him go, we fully support his decision and wish him all the best for the future.”

### What’s Next for Collingwood?

McRae’s sudden exit leaves Collingwood in a state of uncertainty as they prepare for the 2024 AFL season. The search for a new head coach will undoubtedly be a top priority for the club, which now faces the challenge of building on the success of their recent premiership without the man who masterminded their resurgence.

While assistant coach Justin Leppitsch has been mentioned as a potential interim replacement, Collingwood’s next move will be crucial in determining whether they can maintain their place as one of the AFL’s top teams. The Magpies boast a talented list, featuring stars like Nick Daicos, Darcy Moore, and Jordan De Goey, but a new coach will need to continue the momentum established under McRae.

For now, the players and the club will be focused on regrouping and preparing for the next season, but the shadow of McRae’s departure will undoubtedly loom large over their pre-season preparations.

### Craig McRae’s Legacy

Despite his short tenure, Craig McRae leaves behind a lasting legacy at Collingwood. His ability to unite the playing group and instill a winning culture at a club that had been struggling will be remembered as one of the most impressive coaching turnarounds in recent AFL history.

McRae’s approach to coaching went beyond tactics; he was known for his ability to connect with players on a personal level, fostering a positive environment that allowed them to thrive both on and off the field. His calm, measured demeanor in high-pressure situations earned him widespread admiration, while his tactical acumen and ability to adapt to different game scenarios made Collingwood one of the most dynamic teams in the competition.

As Collingwood begins the search for its next coach, McRae’s legacy will undoubtedly be one of revitalization and success, having brought the club back to the top of the AFL in just two short years.

### Final Thoughts

Craig McRae’s departure from Collingwood marks the end of a remarkable chapter for both the coach and the club. While his exit is a significant blow for the Magpies, McRae leaves with his head held high, having delivered a premiership and restored the pride of one of the AFL’s most storied clubs.

As the AFL community bids farewell to one of its brightest coaching talents, attention now turns to Collingwood’s future. The club, rich in talent and ambition, must find the right successor to build on the strong foundation McRae has left behind.

For McRae, whatever lies ahead, his contribution to the Magpies and the AFL as a whole will not soon be forgotten.