AFL 2024: Craig McRae Coach, Collingwood, Pre-Season Games
In the lead-up to the 2024 AFL season, Collingwood’s head coach, Craig McRae, made a notable decision to step back from coaching duties during the club’s pre-season matches. This move was part of McRae’s broader strategy to develop his coaching staff and foster a collaborative environment within the team.
### Delegating Leadership
For the pre-season games, McRae handed over the coaching reins to his assistants, including defensive coach Jordan Roughead and senior assistant Hayden Skipworth. McRae remained involved in the games but took a more observational role, allowing his assistants to lead the team. This approach was in line with McRae’s philosophy of empowering his coaching staff and promoting internal growth within the club.([foxsports.com.au][1])
### Building a Stronger Coaching Team
McRae’s decision to delegate coaching responsibilities was also aimed at strengthening the club’s coaching infrastructure. By providing his assistants with the opportunity to lead, McRae hoped to prepare them for future leadership roles within the AFL. This initiative was part of a broader effort to build a sustainable coaching structure that could support the club’s long-term success.
### Emphasizing Team Culture
Beyond tactical decisions, McRae focused on cultivating a positive team culture during the pre-season. He encouraged players to engage with fans and emphasized the importance of community involvement. One of McRae’s initiatives included inviting Magpie fans onto the field to watch the players train, providing them with a rare opportunity to interact with their heroes up close. This gesture was part of McRae’s broader strategy to strengthen the bond between the club and its supporters.([7news.com.au][2])
### Preparing for the Season Ahead
As the pre-season concluded, McRae and his coaching staff reflected on the lessons learned and the areas for improvement. The pre-season games provided valuable insights into the team’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing the coaching staff to make necessary adjustments before the regular season commenced. McRae’s leadership during this period was instrumental in setting the tone for the team’s approach to the 2024 AFL season.
In summary, Craig McRae’s approach to the 2024 pre-season games was characterized by delegation, empowerment, and community engagement. His leadership style not only focused on tactical preparation but also on building a cohesive and supportive environment for both players and staff. As the regular season began, the foundations laid during the pre-season were expected to contribute to Collingwood’s performance throughout the year.
