Collingwood Football Club is undergoing a major transformation, strengthening its leadership and roster in preparation for the 2025 AFL season. One of the club’s most significant moves is the anticipated appointment of Chris Davies, Port Adelaide’s football boss, to replace Graham Wright, Collingwood’s outgoing football chief. This acquisition of Davies reflects Collingwood’s strategic intent to reinforce its leadership structure following the departure of Wright, who has been an integral part of the club’s recent success.
Chris Davies is widely regarded as one of the most experienced football bosses in the AFL, having served in various roles at Port Adelaide for several years. During his time with Port Adelaide, Davies demonstrated an acute understanding of football operations, recruiting strategies, and player development, which made him a sought-after figure within the AFL community. His ability to manage a team’s structure, coupled with his deep knowledge of the sport, has earned him a stellar reputation, making him an ideal candidate to guide Collingwood into its next chapter.
Collingwood’s decision to bring in Davies comes at a critical time, as the club continues to build on its 2023 premiership success. Under the leadership of head coach Craig McRae, Collingwood has positioned itself as a formidable force in the AFL. McRae’s ability to rally the team to victory has been widely praised, but the departure of Graham Wright left a significant gap in the club’s executive leadership. Wright’s departure was seen as a challenge for the club, given his critical role in recruiting and building the team’s premiership-winning squad. However, the signing of Davies signals the club’s intention to remain competitive and continue its winning ways.
The appointment of Davies is just one piece of Collingwood’s broader strategy to enhance its organizational and playing strength. Alongside the leadership changes, Collingwood has made a significant move on the player front, securing Greater Western Sydney (GWS) free agent Harry Perryman on a six-year deal. Perryman, a versatile utility player, was highly sought after by several clubs, including Port Adelaide, Essendon, and Hawthorn. His decision to join Collingwood represents a major coup for the club, as Perryman’s ability to play multiple roles on the field makes him a valuable asset.
Perryman has been a standout player for GWS since being drafted in 2016. Known for his strong defensive skills and ability to transition quickly into attacking plays, Perryman’s versatility has been one of his defining traits. Over the course of his career, he has played across various positions, including in the midfield, defense, and as a utility player, which makes him a perfect fit for Collingwood’s dynamic playing style. The six-year deal signifies Collingwood’s long-term investment in Perryman’s talents, as the club views him as a key player in its future campaigns.
The decision to bring Perryman into the fold comes as Collingwood looks to shore up its squad depth. The 2025 season will present new challenges for the club, as other AFL teams, such as Brisbane Lions and Melbourne Demons, will be vying for the top spot. By securing Perryman, Collingwood is not only addressing its immediate needs but also positioning itself for sustained success in the coming years. Perryman’s defensive prowess and on-field leadership are expected to complement the team’s existing stars, creating a well-rounded lineup capable of tackling any opposition.
Collingwood’s aggressive moves in the leadership and player markets reflect the club’s determination to build on its 2023 premiership triumph. The return of Chris Davies to the club’s football operations and the acquisition of Harry Perryman are pivotal decisions aimed at ensuring that Collingwood remains a powerhouse in the AFL. The club’s commitment to continuous improvement and its proactive approach to recruiting talent indicate a forward-thinking mindset, one that is focused on achieving both short-term victories and long-term dominance.
As the 2025 AFL season approaches, all eyes will be on how Collingwood integrates these new additions into its broader strategy. The presence of Chris Davies in the football department is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the club’s operations. His experience managing player contracts, overseeing recruitment processes, and ensuring optimal team performance will be invaluable to Collingwood’s continued success. Meanwhile, Harry Perryman’s arrival on the field adds another layer of strength to the team’s lineup, giving head coach Craig McRae even more flexibility in his game plan.
Collingwood’s proactive approach in the offseason demonstrates that the club is not content with resting on its laurels. The departure of Graham Wright could have been a setback for the club, but by securing the services of Chris Davies and Harry Perryman, Collingwood has shown that it remains a force to be reckoned with. The club’s forward-thinking mentality and willingness to adapt and evolve highlight its commitment to maintaining its status as one of the AFL’s premier teams.
With these high-profile additions, Collingwood has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting 2025 season. The club’s supporters can look forward to seeing how the team’s new leadership and playing roster come together in pursuit of another premiership. Whether on the field or behind the scenes, Collingwood’s focus remains on excellence, and the club’s recent moves reflect its unwavering determination to succeed at the highest level.
