MELBOURNE, VIC — A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS FOR CRAIG McRAE AND FAMILY
For the Collingwood Magpies, a club so often defined by grit, passion, and relentless pursuit of victory, this week has brought something entirely different — a moment of pure tenderness and joy. Head coach Craig McRae, the man whose calm leadership helped steer Collingwood to one of the AFL’s most thrilling modern eras, and his wife Gabrielle, have announced the arrival of their new baby, sending waves of happiness through the football community.
The news, confirmed early this week, has drawn warm congratulations from teammates, club officials, and fans alike. It’s a moment that transcends sport — one that reminds everyone that even in the high-pressure world of professional football, there are milestones far
greater than wins or losses.
A SPECIAL DELIVERY FOR THE MAGPIES’ MAIN MAN
McRae, affectionately known as “Fly” in AFL circles, has always been known for his emotional intelligence, positivity, and unwavering humility. His post-match speeches often carry lessons that resonate beyond the game — about growth, family, and perspective. Now, those words take on new meaning as he steps into perhaps the most rewarding role of all: fatherhood once again.
Sources close to the couple say both mother and baby are healthy and doing well. Gabrielle, who has largely remained out of the media spotlight, has been praised for her grace and strength, especially as she and her husband navigated the demands of an intense football season.
“Craig’s always been a family-first person,” one Collingwood insider shared. “He constantly reminds the boys that while football is important, family is everything. This new chapter just reinforces that.”
CLUB AND COMMUNITY CELEBRATE
The Collingwood Football Club quickly joined in the celebration, posting a heartfelt message on its official social media pages congratulating the couple. “The Magpie family has grown by one! Congratulations to Craig and Gabrielle on the arrival of their beautiful baby. Wishing your family all the happiness in the world,” the statement read.
Fans flooded the comments section with joy and admiration. Some called the moment “the best win of the year,” while others shared touching stories of how McRae’s leadership has inspired them as parents, coaches, and mentors in their own communities.
For a club that has experienced every emotion possible over the past few seasons — from premiership glory to heartbreaking injuries and retirements — this moment feels like a gentle reminder of life’s deeper joys.
BALANCING FOOTY AND FATHERHOOD
Craig McRae’s rise through the AFL coaching ranks has been remarkable. After years of development coaching and assistant roles across clubs like Richmond and Hawthorn, McRae took the Collingwood head coach position in 2021. Since then, he has transformed the team’s culture — instilling belief, accountability, and unity.
Under his guidance, the Magpies have become known for their thrilling late-game comebacks and fearless style of play. But McRae’s true magic, according to those who know him best, lies in how he builds relationships. He often tells his players to “see the person, not just the player.”
That same philosophy seems to guide his life off the field too. Friends say McRae has always been deeply devoted to his family. During the 2023 Grand Final celebration, he publicly mentioned his wife Gabrielle and their family in an emotional moment that fans still recall fondly.
“He doesn’t just talk about family values — he lives them,” one former teammate said. “When the siren goes, Craig’s first thoughts are about calling home. That’s who he is.”
A TIMELY REMINDER OF PERSPECTIVE
In a sporting world where headlines often center on controversies, trades, and pressure, the McRaes’ baby news has provided a refreshing pause. AFL commentators and fans alike have highlighted how the story showcases the human side of a sport often dominated by competition and scrutiny.
“Craig McRae is one of those coaches who reminds us that success isn’t just about silverware,” one Melbourne sports columnist wrote. “It’s about building something lasting — whether that’s a team culture or a family legacy.”
The timing couldn’t be more symbolic. As the AFL offseason begins and teams regroup for the next campaign, McRae will be balancing strategy meetings and sleepless nights in equal measure. For a man who often preaches resilience and gratitude, fatherhood once again will offer its own set of lessons — the kind that no playbook can teach.
FROM THE CLUBROOMS TO THE NURSERY
While details about the baby — including name and gender — remain private, McRae’s colleagues say he’s been glowing with pride. “He’s already been joking with the lads that he’s got another future Magpie in the making,” one assistant coach quipped.
Teammates are also said to be planning a small surprise to celebrate the new arrival when McRae returns to club duties. “It’s such a beautiful moment for him,” said one senior player. “We all look up to Craig not just as a coach but as a role model. Seeing him so happy right now just lifts everyone.”
LOVE, LEGACY, AND NEW BEGINNINGS
For Craig and Gabrielle, the coming weeks will undoubtedly bring a blend of joy, sleepless nights, and adjustment — familiar to any new parent. Yet those close to the couple believe this stage of life will only deepen the values that have made McRae such an admired figure in the AFL community.
“He’s always been about nurturing people — whether it’s a young player finding his confidence or a teammate struggling with form,” said another club source. “Now, he gets to channel all that care into his own little one. It’s really special.”
As one fan perfectly summed it up online:
> “The man who helps young men grow into champions now gets to raise a little champion of his own.”
THE FINAL SIREN
While Collingwood supporters eagerly anticipate the next AFL season, many agree that this is one story worth cheering for right now. Beyond the noise of competition, beyond the black-and-white stripes and the roar of the MCG, there’s a quiet, beautiful victory unfolding in the McRae household.
And in a world that often measures success by scoreboards, Craig McRae’s latest win — the arrival of a healthy, happy baby — is perhaps the most meaningful one yet.
As one of the most beloved coaches in modern AFL, McRae’s influence continues to extend far beyond the game. His journey, now intertwined with the joy of new parenthood, serves as a touching reminder that life’s greatest triumphs often happen away from the field — in the quiet, love-filled moments that shape who we are.
