In a historic and emotional moment for one of the AFL’s proudest clubs, Collingwood Football Club President Jeff Browne has officially welcomed back club legend Nathan Buckley, announcing his return as the club’s new Executive Chairman.
The announcement, made early Thursday morning at the AIA Centre, confirmed what many within the Magpie community had quietly hoped for — a reunion between Collingwood and one of its most decorated figures, a man who has become synonymous with the black and white across three decades.
A Legacy Rekindled
Buckley’s return marks the continuation of a journey that began more than 30 years ago. Having joined Collingwood in 1994, he built a legacy as one of the club’s greatest ever players, captains, and later, senior coach. Now, in a new era, he returns not to chase possessions or premierships from the sidelines — but to help steer the club’s broader direction and long-term strategy.
“This is more than a return,” President Jeff Browne said during the announcement. “This is the reconnection of a legacy, a reinforcement of our values, and a landmark moment in our history. Nathan Buckley is part of the Collingwood DNA, and to welcome him back as Executive Chairman is both a privilege and a strategic move for our future.”
Browne’s endorsement was emphatic, describing Buckley’s appointment as a “cultural and football leadership masterstroke.”
Buckley’s Role as Executive Chairman
In his new role, Buckley will sit between the board and key football operations leaders. He will be involved in:
•Overseeing strategic football planning
•Supporting cultural development initiatives
•Providing insight into player pathways and leadership programs
•Helping shape the long-term identity and values of the club
While Buckley will not be involved in direct coaching, his presence is expected to have a significant influence on the club’s high-performance environment and internal standards — something he was renowned for during his playing and coaching days.
“Collingwood is in my blood,” Buckley said in an emotional written statement. “This club shaped me, challenged me, and gave me purpose. I’m humbled to return in this new capacity to help guide its future and support the incredible people already working to keep Collingwood strong.”
Official Welcome Event at the AIA Centre
The club confirmed that Buckley will be formally introduced in his new role during a special media event at the AIA Centre, where past teammates, club legends, staff, players, and media representatives are expected to gather.
Insiders say the event will not only celebrate Buckley’s return but also outline his vision for the club moving forward — from performance and people, to purpose and pride.
“There are few people who understand the expectations and soul of this club like Bucks does,” said Browne. “He’s not just returning as a figurehead. He’s returning to lead, to support, and to push us further in our pursuit of sustained excellence.”
The Buckley-Collingwood Bond
Nathan Buckley’s Collingwood journey has been layered, public, and deeply personal.
As a player:
•280 games for the Magpies
•Six Copeland Trophies
•Brownlow Medalist (2003)
•Collingwood captain (1999–2007)
•Revered for his elite professionalism and leadership
As a coach:
•2012–2021 senior coach
•Led the Magpies to the 2018 Grand Final
•Played a key role in modernising the club’s football systems
As a figure:
•Buckley has been both lauded and scrutinized during his Collingwood tenure — but always respected.
•He is widely regarded as one of the most thoughtful and composed leaders the AFL has seen.
Why Now?
The timing of Buckley’s return aligns with a club that is surging both on and off the field.
•Collingwood won the 2023 AFL Premiership under coach Craig McRae.
•The club enjoys strong financial footing, record membership, and improved cultural standing following years of internal review and community engagement.
•There is now a desire to cement long-term leadership stability — with figures like President Jeff Browne, CEO Craig Kelly, and coach McRae working in tight unison.
“This role gives me a chance to contribute without the week-to-week pressures of coaching,” Buckley said. “It’s about shaping direction, not calling tactics. My goal is to ensure we’re not just winning games — we’re building a legacy that reflects who we are and what we stand for.”
Reactions from Around the Club
The news was met with applause from past and present Magpie figures.
•Scott Pendlebury, Collingwood’s games record-holder and former captain under Buckley, said:
“No one knows what it takes to be Collingwood like Bucks. I’m rapt to see him back.”
•Craig McRae, current head coach, expressed confidence in the synergy between Buckley’s strategic mind and the club’s current direction:
“There’s no ego with Nathan. He’s collaborative, smart, and understands elite standards. This is a great move.”
•Club great Tony Shaw added:
“He’s the most driven bloke I ever saw in the jumper. Collingwood’s in safe hands.”
Looking Ahead
As the Magpies continue their march through the 2025 season with their eyes firmly set on back-to-back premierships, the addition of Buckley off the field adds a layer of experienced oversight and football gravitas to the club’s structure.
The club hopes this move will not only strengthen internal leadership, but help elevate Collingwood as a role model across the league — balancing on-field brilliance with cultural excellence.
“We’re not just chasing flags,” Jeff Browne concluded. “We’re building something deeper — and Nathan’s return is a key piece in that puzzle.”
With Nathan Buckley back in the building, the Magpies aren’t just looking to soar again — they’re aiming to set the standard for what a modern football powerhouse should look like.
And perhaps, for Buckley, there’s no place like home.
