BREAKING NEWS: Mick Malthouse Sends Powerful Message to Collingwood Head Coach Craig McRae Ahead of Finals Push
Mick Malthouse, a former Collingwood Football Club premiership coach and current AFL commentator, is said to have sent current Pies head coach Craig McRae a heartfelt and impactful message in a surprising move that has caused a great deal of respect and encouragement among the AFL community.
The timing of this message is significant as Collingwood prepares for another deep run to the finals in the 2025 AFL season. Sources familiar with the matter claim that Malthouse’s remarks were meant to reinforce conviction, provide tactical direction, and remind McRae of the responsibility and legacy that come with being the head of one of the league’s most illustrious teams.
Not only is the letter itself causing a stir in the AFL community, but it also serves as a unique public link between two periods of Collingwood greatness.
Mick Malthouse is a legend in Collingwood. He guided the Pies through some of their most memorable contemporary seasons from 2000 to 2011, which culminated in the 2010 Premiership and the team’s supremacy throughout that finals era. During his tenure, Malthouse—who was renowned for his tactical acumen, psychological fortitude, and commanding leadership—became the most successful coach in AFL history.
Craig McRae, who goes by “Fly,” is creating his own legend. After becoming control of the team in 2022, he rapidly made Collingwood a vibrant, unafraid, and cohesive team. Following a stunning one-point loss in the 2022 preliminary final, McRae ignited the passion of the Collingwood supporters and ushered in a new era of greatness by leading the Magpies to Premiership success in 2023.
Despite the stark differences in their approaches—Malthouse’s steely resolution and McRae’s serene optimism—there is no denying their regard for one another.
The Message: Encouragement, Advice, and a Touch of Legacy
Insiders at SEN and AFL Media claim that Malthouse’s message was profoundly personal and substantive, rather than merely symbolic.
In addition, he provided tactical guidance on how to deal with the emotional toll of expectations, player exhaustion, and media distraction during the late season. Most significantly, it was said that Malthouse made McRae realize how heavy the black-and-white sweater was.
Although the message’s timing has drawn criticism, it makes perfect sense.
Collingwood is well positioned for another deep finals campaign, sitting comfortably inside the top four. McRae is facing one of his toughest tests to date, though, as injuries are getting worse and pressure from teams like Carlton, Brisbane, and Sydney is increasing.
The Pies’ dynamic ball movement and daring transitions have dazzled fans, but recent inconsistency and a few close losses have sparked concerns about finals readiness.
Sources close to Malthouse say he saw the moment as “crucial,” and wanted to offer a veteran coach’s insight when it mattered most.
McRae’s Response: “Gratitude and Focus”
Though McRae has not publicly spoken in detail about the message, during his weekly press conference at AIA Centre, he hinted at the exchange when asked about advice from past coaches.
He added that the team’s internal standards—not external expectations—would drive their performance through the finals.
The AFL community has reacted with surprise, nostalgia, and deep respect. For many fans and former players, this exchange feels like a full-circle moment in Collingwood’s rich history.
- “Two premiership coaches. One goal. Love to see it,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).
- “Malthouse gave us 2010. Fly gave us 2023. Together, they’ve brought pride back to this club,” said another in a Reddit thread.
- AFL commentator Gerard Whateley called the moment “a generational handoff” and praised both men for “understanding the deeper meaning of leadership.”
Even former players weighed in. Scott Pendlebury, who played under both coaches, said, “Mick taught me how to lead. Fly helped me rediscover joy in the game. This is Collingwood at its best.”
Legacy and the Weight of the Jumper
Mick Malthouse’s message is a reminder that coaching at Collingwood is more than tactics or selection—it’s about representing one of Australia’s most scrutinised sporting institutions.
The weight of the black-and-white stripes, the ferocity of the fanbase, and the club’s history demand not just results—but character.
With McRae now holding a Premiership to his name and Collingwood poised for continued dominance, the pressure—and the opportunity—have never been higher.
As the home-and-away season reaches its climax, Collingwood faces critical matches against Sydney, Melbourne, and Fremantle—each a potential finals preview.
The health of key players like Nick Daicos, Darcy Moore, and Jordan De Goey will be crucial, as will McRae’s ability to maintain team cohesion and mental clarity under pressure.
A second flag under McRae in three years would establish him as one of the greatest modern coaches and solidify the post-Malthouse era as a new dynasty, provided the Pies can find their rhythm.
The tale of Craig McRae and Mick Malthouse is one of legacy rather than rivalry. The Pies were once again frightened after Malthouse rescued them from the forest. McRae has returned the ‘G to happiness, boldness, and success.
Malthouse wasn’t merely giving counsel when he sent his note. He was confirming faith in a coach who was passing the torch.
Leave a Reply