Collingwood coach Craig McRae to Step Back, Allowing Coaching Staff Development Ahead of Pre-Season Fixtures
Collingwood coach Craig McRae will delegate coaching duties for the club’s two pre-season matches.
McRae, known for his adeptness at delegation during his tenure, will step back for these fixtures, allowing new defensive coach Jordan Roughead and assistant Hayden Skipworth to accelerate their development.
While McRae will remain involved in both games, this decision underscores the collaborative approach he has fostered at the club. Ahead of the 2024 season, Collingwood’s coaching structure saw some adjustments, including Skipworth’s promotion to senior assistant and Roughead’s focus on the backline.
Justin Leppitsch was elevated to director of strategy and innovation, while Brendon Bolton assumed the role of director of coaching.
Roughead will take on the primary coaching responsibilities for the Pies’ first pre-season match, with Skipworth assuming a similar role for the second.
During Wednesday’s training session at Collingwood, McRae once again entrusted his lieutenants with drill management while offering hands-on guidance, demonstrating his ongoing support for the team.
The Pies are scheduled to face North Melbourne in a match simulation on February 21, followed by a final pre-season fixture against Richmond on February 27.
