Collingwood Football Club is thrilled to announce the return of Matthew Boyd, who will rejoin the team as an Assistant Coach for the 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership Season. Boyd’s appointment marks a significant moment for the Pies, combining his extensive playing experience with a robust coaching pedigree.
Matthew Boyd, a name synonymous with commitment and excellence in Australian football, brings a wealth of experience back to the Magpies. With a career spanning 292 games, Boyd is a revered figure in the AFL. He achieved his pinnacle as a player with the Western Bulldogs, culminating in a memorable 2016 premiership victory. Boyd’s transition from player to coach was marked by his dedication and passion for the game, attributes that have shaped his coaching career.
In 2018, Boyd began his coaching journey with Collingwood as a Development Coach. His role quickly evolved, and by 2020, he was appointed as an Assistant Coach, taking charge of the club’s defensive strategies. During his tenure, Boyd made a significant impact on the team’s defensive structure, showcasing his strategic acumen and leadership skills.
In 2022, Boyd took a new direction in his coaching career, moving to Perth to join Fremantle as the Backline Assistant Coach. Under the guidance of Fremantle’s head coach, Justin Longmuir, Boyd continued to refine his coaching abilities and contributed to the development of Fremantle’s defensive game plan.
Boyd’s return to Collingwood is met with enthusiasm and optimism. Brendon Bolton, Collingwood’s General Manager of Football, expressed his excitement about Boyd’s reappointment. “We are delighted to welcome Matthew and his family back to our Club,” Bolton said. “Matthew began his coaching career with Collingwood and has since honed his skills and expanded his expertise at Fremantle.”
Bolton highlighted Boyd’s achievements and the value he brings to the team. “He has experienced considerable success as a player and has spent the past six years as a respected assistant coach. His experience and insights will be invaluable to our program.”
Boyd’s return to Collingwood is not just a professional homecoming but also a personal one. His wife, Kate, and their three children will be joining him as they settle back into the Collingwood community. The Boyd family’s return adds a personal touch to this professional milestone, reinforcing the sense of family and unity that Collingwood is known for.
As the team gears up for the 2025 season, Boyd’s arrival will coincide with the pre-season training starting in November. His role as an Assistant Coach will see him work closely with the team to build on Collingwood’s strengths and address areas of improvement. Boyd’s previous experience with the Magpies and his recent achievements with Fremantle position him as a key asset in shaping the team’s future success.
Collingwood fans and players alike are eagerly anticipating Boyd’s contributions. His deep understanding of the game, combined with his proven track record in both playing and coaching capacities, promises to bring a fresh perspective and renewed vigor to the team.
The 2025 season is shaping up to be an exciting one for Collingwood, and Matthew Boyd’s return is a significant step in the right direction. As the team prepares to embark on a new season, Boyd’s expertise and leadership will undoubtedly play a crucial role in driving Collingwood towards its goals.
In summary, Matthew Boyd’s reappointment as an Assistant Coach heralds a new chapter for Collingwood, blending his rich football history with his seasoned coaching experience. The Magpies are set to benefit from Boyd’s strategic insights and dedication, making his return a highly anticipated and celebrated event in the AFL community.