Collingwood Welcomes Back Nathan Buckley as Executive Chairman, Ushering in a New Era of Leadership
June 17, 2025 — Melbourne, VIC
In a monumental moment for the club and its loyal fanbase, the Collingwood Football Club has officially welcomed back one of its most iconic figures, Nathan Buckley, who will now serve as the club’s Executive Chairman. The announcement marks a powerful reunion between the club and a man who has defined Collingwood’s spirit across three decades—first as a champion player, then as a captain, senior coach, and now as a senior leader off the field.
Buckley’s return, confirmed Tuesday morning at a press conference held at the club’s Olympic Park headquarters, signals the beginning of a new era for the Magpies, blending tradition with innovation.
“This club has been in my blood for most of my life,” Buckley said during his opening remarks. “To return now in a role that allows me to help shape the next phase of Collingwood’s journey is a tremendous honour. I’m not here to relive the past—I’m here to help guide us boldly into the future.”
A Legacy Reborn
Few names carry the weight that Nathan Buckley does at Collingwood. A Brownlow Medalist in 2003, a seven-time Copeland Trophy winner, and a former club captain, Buckley embodied excellence and leadership throughout his playing career. He led by example with toughness, intelligence, and unwavering commitment—traits he carried into his role as senior coach from 2012 to 2021.
Under his coaching tenure, the Pies reached multiple finals series, including the unforgettable 2018 Grand Final, where they fell short by a single goal. Though he stepped down as senior coach in 2021, Buckley’s bond with the black and white never waned.
Club President Maria Giannopoulos spoke glowingly of Buckley’s return:
“Nathan Buckley is a Collingwood icon, not just because of what he’s done—but because of how he’s done it. He brings with him integrity, clarity, and deep football knowledge. We believe he’s the perfect figure to help unify the club’s football and business operations and strengthen our connection to members.”
A Broader Role for a Broader Vision
As Executive Chairman, Buckley will oversee both football and administrative operations at a strategic level, working closely with the Board, CEO Craig Kelly, and Head Coach Craig McRae. His remit will include stakeholder engagement, leadership development, long-term planning, and club culture—a critical aspect of modern AFL club management.
While Buckley won’t be involved in the day-to-day coaching or recruiting decisions, he emphasized his goal of supporting the entire Collingwood ecosystem, from players and staff to members and community partners.
“My role is to listen, learn, and lead,” he said. “We have an extraordinary team in place on and off the field. I’m here to serve them and to ensure Collingwood continues to grow stronger in every way—performance, culture, and impact.”
Players and Fans React
The reaction to Buckley’s return has been overwhelmingly positive across the footy world.
Magpies captain Darcy Moore called it “a brilliant move” and said Buckley “brings a deep understanding of what it means to wear the guernsey and to carry the responsibility of this club forward.”
Former players, including Scott Pendlebury and Steele Sidebottom, also voiced support on social media, with Pendlebury writing, “There’s no better person to help guide Collingwood into its next chapter. Welcome home, Bucks.”
Across Twitter and Instagram, fans flooded Collingwood’s pages with messages of excitement, hope, and respect. The hashtag #BuckleyReturns trended across Australia within hours of the announcement.
What’s Next for Collingwood?
With the club enjoying a resurgence on-field under Craig McRae’s leadership and boasting a talented core of emerging stars, Buckley’s return comes at an opportune time. His appointment aligns with the club’s strategic push to expand its community outreach, membership programs, and long-term football success.
An official welcome event is being planned ahead of Round 16, with Buckley expected to address members directly at the MCG before the match.
As Collingwood moves boldly into its next chapter, the presence of Nathan Buckley at the helm offers a powerful blend of legacy and forward-thinking vision.
“In the end, it’s about people,” Buckley concluded. “This club is made by its people—our members, our players, our staff. I’m here to help bring them together, honor our heritage, and build something even greater.”
Welcome back, Bucks. The next era has begun.