Collingwood Football Club has awarded Life Membership to five individuals this evening during the Annual General Meeting at the KGM Centre.
Three Premiership Pies were honoured alongside Mick Dugina and Brian McKenzie for their service to the black and white.
Current player Jeremy Howe was awarded Life Membership for 10 years on the Club’s senior list while, Will Hoskin-Elliott and Oleg Markov were elevated as Premiership players who have recently finished up at the Club.
Will Hoskin-Elliott
After 242 games, Hoskin-Elliott hung up his boots at the conclusion of the 2025 AFL season.
An inaugural GWS Giant, Hoskin-Elliott made the move to Collingwood after five seasons and 52 games in orange.
Since arriving at the Pies ahead of the 2017 season, Hoskin-Elliott quickly became much-loved by teammates and was the ultimate team player.
A key member of Collingwood’s 2023 premiership-winning season, Hoskin-Elliott’s consistency and versatility made him a pivotal member of the Pies’ lineup.
Jeremy Howe
As he prepares to embark on his 16th AFL season, Howe was celebrated for a decade in black and white.
Arriving at Collingwood at the end of 2015 from Melbourne, Howe has gone on to play 171 games for the Pies, taking his career tally to 271, and was a key member of the 2023 Premiership.
Howe has built his career on high-flying marks, determined defence and strong leadership, with his unique journey from dynamic forward to premiership-winning defender reflecting his adaptability, resilience and a deep commitment to team success.
Having served as the Vice-Captain for seven years, Howe’s leadership has been a pivotal part of Collingwood’s AFL program.
Oleg Markov
2023 was a special year for Markov. He started the year training with Collingwood in the hope of securing a Supplemental Selection Period (SSP) list spot.
The defender was signed in February and by September, he was a Premiership player.
Over his three years in the black and white, Markov played 43 games, adding to the 51 from his time at Richmond and Gold Coast Suns.
Markov was much-loved by fans for his light-hearted, humorous nature and unique goal celebrations.
Mick Dugina
Dugina retired from Collingwood earlier this year after more than three decades of service.
Having worked in a variety of roles throughout his time at the Club, Dugina’s most notable position was his work with the strength and conditioning team.
Dugina was influential on the careers of many Collingwood players and was highly valued by all the coaches he worked with, including current Senior Coach Craig McRae.
Brian McKenzie
McKenzie was awarded Life Membership for 10 years as a player and Board member.
Having spent seven seasons as a player between 1966 and 1972, McKenzie joined the Board for a further four years.
Throughout his playing years, McKenzie played a total of 81 VFL games and became known for his courageous defence.
President Barry Carp celebrated the group on receiving Life Membership.
“Tonight, we have acknowledged and honoured five individuals who have all left a long-lasting impact on the Collingwood Football Club,” Carp said.
“To our three AFL Premiership players, Will, Jeremy and Oleg, you all played an integral role in our 2023 AFL Premiership, the 16th for our great Club.
“Jeremy, we will continue to cheer and support you as you embark on your 16th season. To Will and Oleg, congratulations on your careers and you will forever be a part of the Collingwood fabric.
“When we farewelled Mick earlier this year, I don’t think anyone has ever seen the auditorium so full. This is a reflection on the impact and legacy you leave at Collingwood. You’ve seen a lot of football over three decades and we thank you for your service and contribution to the Club.
“Brian’s courageous heroics on the field throughout his time playing, alongside his impact at Board level, were reflected tonight through his Life Membership. We thank Brian for his time dedicated to the black and white. He has made our Club stronger and we thank him for that.”
