Collingwood’s AFLW crisis has claimed another scalp with coach Sam Wright announcing he will quit after this weekend’s final game of the season.
The Pies are set to lose captain Ruby Schleicher at the end of the season among others, with the exodus coming after Channel 7’s Tom Morris first revealed frustrations within the program.
7NEWS Melbourne’s Xander McGuire then revealed AFLW footy boss Laura Kane intervened in recent weeks and met with members of Collingwood’s board.
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And the fallout is continuing even before the end of a dismal season featuring just one win from their 11 games to date.
Wright will coach Collingwood against Essendon and their own departing coach Natalie Wood on Sunday before leaving the role.
“It has been a privilege to serve the AFLW program at Collingwood,” he said.
“I will always look back on my time at the Pies with gratitude, and I want to thank every player, coach, staff member and supporter I’ve shared this journey with.
“While these decisions are never easy, I know it is the right one for my family and the football program as we move forward.
“I look forward to coaching the group this Sunday and I wish them all the very best for the future — I leave knowing Collingwood is committed to driving its AFLW program forward.”
Magpies CEO Craig Kelly thanked Wright, who began his tenure with a 1-10 record and the wooden spoon in 2024 before going 3-9 last year.
“Sam has led our AFLW program with genuine care and we will recognise his contribution following our final game of the season this weekend,” Kelly said.
“We recognise the significant commitment the senior coach role requires and we thank not only Sam, but also his partner Georgia, for her support.
“We wish Sam and his family every success in their next chapter.”
Collingwood will now be on the lookout for a new coach, captain and potentially vice-captain with Schleicher’s deputy Jordyn Allen contracted but expected to explore a move.
Tarni White, Lauren Butler, Bri Davey, Sarah Rowe, Violet Patterson and Mattea Breed are all out of contract and no guarantee to stay.
