Collingwood’s VFL side will charge into the new season under fresh leadership, with Brady Grey and Ben De Bolfo officially appointed as the Club’s new VFL Co-Captains.

After spending five seasons with the Fremantle Dockers from 2014 to 2018, Grey arrived at the Pies in 2025 after tasting WAFL premiership glory with the Peel Thunder the year prior.

The 30-year-old quickly became a driving force in Collingwood’s midfield, playing 16 games in the black and white last season and establishing himself as a vital leader for the Club’s emerging AFL-listed talent pushing through the VFL program.

Joining him at the helm is De Bolfo, whose impact was immediate after making the move to Collingwood’s VFL side from Box Hill.

The 23-year-old defender wasted no time stamping his authority on the backline, becoming a key pillar in defence following his Round 6 debut and earning the respect of teammates and coaches alike.

Grey and De Bolfo will be supported by a strong leadership group, with off-season recruit and former North Melbourne midfielder Will Phillips joining Josh Browne and Max Mahoney as part of the Club’s VFL leadership core.

VFL Head Coach Matthew Lokan said the appointment of Grey and De Bolfo is a result of the players’ strong ability to connect the team throughout the pre-season.

“We’re excited to have Brady and Ben lead our program as Co-Captains this season,” Lokan said.

“Both bring outstanding leadership and strong connection to the team, consistently setting the standard through their work ethics, professionalism, and the way they support their teammates.

“While they lead in different ways, they each have a significant influence on the group and help drive a positive and accountable environment, and most importantly they consistently show a Club-first approach.

“They will be excellent leaders for our VFL program in 2026.”

Collingwood’s VFL season officially kicks off in their Round 2 clash against GWS on Friday 27 March at 3pm at the Club’s spiritual home of Victoria Park.