Collingwood has locked in its 2026 AFL coaching structure, with Niterra coming on board as the Coaches’ Partner.
Hayden Skipworth will continue to support McRae as Head of Football Strategy and Coaching, including overseeing the development coaching team.
Over the AFL off-season, the Pies welcomed back 2010 AFL Premiership player Tyson Goldsack as an assistant coach, who will be responsible for the forward line.
Matthew Boyd and Jordan Roughead will continue their roles as assistant coaches, overseeing the midfield and backlines respectively.
Former Essendon Captain Dyson Heppell will work alongside fellow development coaches Nathan Murphy, Chloe McMillan and newly appointed VFL Senior Coach Matthew Lokan.
Greg Stafford has also joined the coaching team as ruck coach and will oversee the development of the Club’s up-and-coming ruck division.
Collingwood is also pleased to announce that Niterra has joined the Club as a Platinum Partner and the Coaches’ Partner for the AFL and VFL teams in 2026.
Niterra is one of the world’s leading automotive suppliers, distributing brands; NGK Ignition Parts, NTK Filters & Sensors and KYB Suspension, they offer a diverse range of products to its customers, including spark plugs and filters.
With the commitment to research and evolution, Niterra’s precision engineering and premium product quality align with Collingwood’s dedication to growth and evolution on and off the field.
Niterra’s NTK branding will be placed on Collingwood’s coach apparel and uniform.
Collingwood CEO Craig Kelly welcomed Niterra to the Club.
“We are pleased to have Niterra come on board as our 2026 AFL Coaches’ Partner,” Kelly said.
“Niterra is a highly regarded global brand who have a philosophy based on evolution, precision and delivering a premium product – things that align very closely with us at Collingwood.
“We thank Niterra for their support and look forward to working alongside their team in 2026.”
AFL Senior Coach Craig McRae celebrated Niterra coming on board as the Coaches’ Partner.
“It’s fantastic to have a global brand like Niterra supporting our coaching group as we prepare for the 2026 AFL season,” McRae said.
“Niterra leads the automotive world through innovation and forward thinking. That drive mirrors our coaching group’s mindset. We’re constantly searching for new ways to improve and help our players perform at their best.”
Niterra Australia’s Head of Marketing Racquelle Felices said the organisation was excited to align with Collingwood ahead of the 2026 AFL Season.
“Niterra Australia and Collingwood are coming together through a shared commitment to family, teamwork and community spirit as well as driving excellence both on and off the field,” Felices said.
“This partnership celebrates the power of connection, uniting fans, families and automotive enthusiasts and together, we will deliver unique experiences that bring both worlds closer, inspiring the next generation of talent.
“Built on trust, passion and performance, Niterra Australia and Collingwood's partnership reflects a mutual dedication to supporting the people who keep our industries moving.”
Collingwood’s 2026 AFL Coaching Structure
Craig McRae – Senior Coach
Hayden Skipworth – Head of Football Strategy and Coaching
Matthew Boyd – Assistant Coach (Midfield)
Tyson Goldsack – Assistant Coach (Forwards)
Jordan Roughead – Assistant Coach (Backs)
Dyson Heppell – Development Coach
Chloe McMillan – Development Coach
Nathan Murphy – Development Coach
Matthew Lokan – Development Coach /VFL Coach
Greg Stafford – Ruck Coach
