Collingwood to commission independent review of AFLW program
The Magpies are 17th with one win ahead of their final match of 2026, with coach Sam Wright and captain Ruby Schleicher set to leave.
Collingwood says it will appoint an independent expert to review its AFLW program as it prepares to finish a fourth consecutive season without a finals appearance and replace coach Sam Wright.
The Magpies have recorded one win and occupy 17th place before their last match of 2026 against Essendon. It is their third consecutive season among the bottom four.
President Barry Carp said the board and executive accepted responsibility for the program’s shortcomings. He said the external expert would examine existing approaches and work with Collingwood’s AFLW subcommittee on recommendations for change.
The review comes amid changes to the playing group. Captain Ruby Schleicher has announced she will return to Western Australia next season. Tarni White, Lauren Butler, Bri Davey, Sarah Rowe, Violet Patterson and Mattea Breed are all without contracts for next season.
AFLW football boss Laura Kane has met members of Collingwood’s board to discuss the program’s difficulties.
Wright will leave after coaching the final match against Essendon, whose coach Natalie Wood is also departing. He said stepping down was the right decision for his family and the program. His first season in 2024 ended with a 1-10 record and the wooden spoon, followed by a 3-9 record last year.
