Jodie Sizer Announces Retirement from Collingwood Football Club After Years of Exceptional Service……..
In a move that has sent ripples through the AFL community, Jodie Sizer has announced her retirement from her role as Vice President of the Collingwood Football Club. After a distinguished career serving one of the league’s most iconic and beloved clubs, Sizer’s decision marks the end of a remarkable era. Her retirement comes after years of dedication, leadership, and a strong commitment to the club’s values and growth. As Collingwood heads into a new chapter, the impact of Sizer’s tenure will be remembered for years to come.
A Legacy of Leadership and Dedication
Jodie Sizer’s association with Collingwood began in 2017, when she joined the club as Vice President. Over the course of her tenure, she became one of the most influential figures in the club’s administration, contributing to its growth both on and off the field. Known for her strategic thinking, innovative approach to governance, and tireless advocacy for women in sport, Sizer made an indelible mark on Collingwood Football Club.
As Vice President, Sizer played a crucial role in shaping the club’s strategic direction. She worked closely with the club’s management team and key stakeholders, ensuring Collingwood remained financially secure while maintaining its competitive edge. Her leadership was especially instrumental during times of challenge, helping guide the club through financial and operational hurdles and keeping the team focused on its long-term objectives
Sizer’s influence extended far beyond the administrative side of the club. She was known for her personal connection to the Collingwood community and her unwavering dedication to the club’s supporters. Her commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive community was evident in the club’s continued outreach programs and fan engagement initiatives, which flourished under her leadership.
Breaking New Ground for Women in Football
One of the most notable aspects of Jodie Sizer’s time at Collingwood was her advocacy for gender equality within the AFL. In a sport traditionally dominated by men, Sizer was a passionate supporter of increasing female representation, both on the field and in the administration. Her efforts to elevate the profile of women’s football, particularly through the AFLW, helped pave the way for a new era in Australian Rules Football.
Sizer’s work behind the scenes in strengthening Collingwood’s AFLW team was one of her greatest contributions. Under her leadership, the women’s team gained greater support, funding, and visibility, ensuring that Collingwood’s female athletes had the resources and platform to succeed. The club’s commitment to equality in sport—something Sizer helped champion—has played a pivotal role in Collingwood’s positive standing in the AFLW competition.
Her passion for gender inclusivity didn’t stop with the players. Sizer was also deeply involved in increasing the number of women in leadership and administrative roles within the AFL, including at Collingwood. Her belief in fostering diverse leadership was integral in reshaping the culture of the club, encouraging more women to take on prominent roles in the administration, coaching, and other key positions.
Reflections on Her Career and Impact
In an emotional statement announcing her retirement, Sizer reflected on her years of service to Collingwood. “It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as Vice President of Collingwood Football Club,” Sizer shared. “From the very first day I joined this club, I knew it was a place where greatness was possible, and I’ve been fortunate enough to witness so much of that greatness firsthand. The journey we’ve shared together—the highs, the lows, and everything in between—has been an experience I will treasure forever.”
Sizer went on to express her gratitude to the players, staff, and supporters of Collingwood, acknowledging the role they played in making her time at the club so special. “Collingwood is not just a club—it’s a family. I have had the privilege of working with some of the most dedicated and passionate people in the world, and it’s their support and hard work that has made all of this possible.”
Her retirement announcement, while expected due to her growing personal commitments, still came as a shock to many. The news quickly spread through Collingwood’s fanbase and the wider AFL community, with tributes pouring in from across the sporting world. Fans and colleagues alike expressed their appreciation for Sizer’s dedication to the club and her pioneering efforts in the fight for gender equality within Australian rules football.
Contributions Beyond Collingwood: Sizer’s Wider Influence
Jodie Sizer’s impact was not limited to Collingwood. Her leadership extended into the wider AFL and sporting communities, where she was seen as a tireless advocate for systemic change. Sizer was a founding member of several organizations aimed at increasing female participation and representation in sport, and she worked tirelessly to create a more inclusive environment for women in the AFL.
Her influence on the development of the AFLW cannot be overstated. As a member of the AFL’s governing body, she played a key role in the establishment of the women’s competition and its ongoing growth. Her involvement in the AFLW’s expansion and visibility has made her one of the most respected figures in the push for equality in sports, and her contributions have left a lasting legacy on the game.
Sizer’s work went beyond football. She was an active participant in several philanthropic initiatives, including programs aimed at promoting mental health awareness and community outreach. Her belief in giving back to the community was evident in her tireless work with charitable organizations, where she used her platform to advocate for social justice issues.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Collingwood Without Sizer
As Jodie Sizer steps down from her role at Collingwood, the club now faces the task of finding a successor who can carry on her work and maintain the high standards she set. While Sizer’s departure leaves a significant gap in the leadership team, her contributions over the years have ensured that Collingwood remains in a strong position to continue its success on and off the field.
Club president Mark Anderson was among the first to pay tribute to Sizer’s service, expressing deep gratitude for her years of hard work and commitment. “Jodie has been a fantastic leader for this club. Her passion, vision, and dedication to Collingwood have been unparalleled. While we are sad to see her go, we fully support her decision and wish her the very best in whatever comes next.”
Collingwood’s future appears bright, as the club remains committed to its long-term objectives of achieving on-field success and continuing to build a strong, inclusive culture. However, it is clear that Sizer’s retirement will leave a void in the club’s leadership that will be difficult to fill.
Sizer’s Personal Journey: What’s Next?
In her personal statement, Sizer hinted at what the next chapter of her life might look like. “I’m looking forward to taking a step back and exploring new opportunities. I have a passion for mentoring and helping others achieve their potential, so I’m excited to see where that path takes me. There are many projects I’m passionate about, particularly those that center around equality, social justice, and mental health.”
While Jodie Sizer may be retiring from Collingwood, her voice and influence are expected to continue making an impact in the wider world of sport and beyond. Her advocacy work, particularly for women in sport and gender equality, will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of leaders, athletes, and fans.
Final Thoughts
Jodie Sizer’s retirement from the Collingwood Football Club marks the end of an era for the club and the AFL as a whole. Throughout her tenure, Sizer was more than just a leader; she was a trailblazer, a champion for inclusivity, and a key architect of Collingwood’s modern identity. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the club, ensuring that her legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.
As Collingwood moves forward without her, the club will undoubtedly honor Sizer’s remarkable service and the monumental changes she helped bring about. With her passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to social justice, Jodie Sizer has earned her place in the history of Australian Rules Football, and her influence will resonate far beyond her time at Collingwood.
