PIES MAKE SEVERAL COACHING CHANGES IN WAKE OF PREMIERSHIP

Collingwood has made a number of changes to its football department in the wake of its premiership success and ploys from rival clubs.

Craig McRae will lead an almost identical coaching team in 2024, however a number of coaches have been promoted.

Numerous Magpies assistants were courted by other teams as part of the assistant coach merry-go-round, but all remained loyal.

However, it’s understood to be a reason behind Justin Leppitsch’s new role as the director of strategy and innovation, while Brendon Bolton adds director of learning and leadership across the club to his existing director of coaching role.

Hayden Skipworth is now the sole midfield coach and is also a senior assistant after enhancing his credentials throughout the 2023 season.

Scott Selwood moves to coach the forward group, while Jordan Roughead takes over as backline coach from Bolton.

The Magpies also revealed they have recruited ex-Bulldogs coach Brendan McCartney to work as a part-time development coach. He was at Collingwood over the 2023 pre-season and at times throughout the premiership year.

Head of football Graham Wright explained the changes and credited the new system to a vote of trust from the coaching team.

“We’re pleased to have retained our 2023 coaching group after this year’s premiership success,” Wright said via a club statement.

“Their commitment to Collingwood shows a belief in what we’re continuing to build both as a program and a Club, and today’s structural changes provide each coach with greater opportunity to learn and develop.

“Hayden has shown significant growth over the last few seasons with us. His promotion to Senior Assistant is a testament to his dedication and commitment to his coaching craft.

“Both Scott and Jordan have been involved in our program for several years now, and we’re excited for them to take a new step in their coaching journeys.

“Justin will help develop and implement the football program’s strategic vision with Craig McRae, provide direction and leadership to our data and analysis division, mentor all coaches and assist in our list management and recruiting areas.

“Brendan will play a pivotal role in continuing to improve the connection across the football department and the wider business while also utilising his extensive leadership and culture experience to continue to further develop our athletes and staff.”

“Although Justin and Brendan will not coach a line group next season, they’ll actively be involved on a match-day.”

McRae and his coaching team led Collingwood to the 2023 premiership in just the head coach’s second year at the helm last month.

McRae earlier this year signed a contract extension that ties him to the Magpies until the 2026 season.