CONGRATULATIONS: Craig McRae, Collingwood Head Coach, Awarded the Prestigious AFL Football Foundation Gold Medal
In a moment of immense pride for the Collingwood Football Club and its loyal fanbase, head coach Craig McRae has been awarded the AFL Football Foundation Gold Medal, one of the most prestigious honors in Australian rules football. This accolade recognizes outstanding contributions to the sport — not only in terms of on-field success, but also for leadership, innovation, and dedication to the game’s values.
Craig McRae’s journey in football has been nothing short of inspirational. A former premiership player turned visionary coach, McRae has consistently demonstrated an exceptional ability to elevate team performance, foster strong club culture, and inspire players to reach their full potential. This award is a fitting tribute to his remarkable impact on the game, both as a tactician and a mentor.
Since taking the helm at Collingwood, McRae has led the club through a transformative period. His leadership style — calm, composed, and focused on development — has reinvigorated the Magpies. Under his guidance, the team has returned to being one of the AFL’s most exciting and competitive sides. But beyond wins and ladder positions, McRae’s influence has been deeply felt in the spirit and identity of the club.
The AFL Football Foundation Gold Medal is awarded annually to individuals who have made a lasting impact on Australian football, and McRae’s achievements tick every box. He has championed inclusivity, promoted mental health awareness within the sport, and invested heavily in nurturing young talent. His commitment to creating a supportive, values-driven environment has become a benchmark for coaching excellence across the league.
McRae’s coaching philosophy is centered around growth — not just of the players, but of the people behind the jerseys. He believes in empowering athletes with responsibility and trust, and the results speak for themselves. His players frequently speak of the confidence and clarity he brings to the locker room. Off the field, McRae has earned the admiration of peers, media, and fans for his humility, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of the game.
The Gold Medal is not just a personal triumph for McRae, but a proud moment for the entire Collingwood community. It reflects the hard work of the support staff, the buy-in from players, and the passionate backing of one of the sport’s largest fanbases. It’s also a signal to the next generation of coaches that leadership, empathy, and purpose are as important as tactical smarts in today’s game.
As the football world celebrates this well-earned recognition, McRae remains characteristically focused — already planning for the next challenge, the next game, the next opportunity to grow. That drive, that commitment to continual improvement, is precisely why he is now a Gold Medal recipient.
Congratulations, Craig McRae, on this extraordinary honor. Your contribution to Australian football goes far beyond the scoreboard, and this award is a testament to your enduring influence on the game we all love. The Magpie Army and the wider AFL community are proud to celebrate this moment with you.
Let me know if you’d like this adapted for social media, a speech, or a formal press release!
Be the first to comment