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Collingwood set for further shake-up as football boss departs

The Magpies are undergoing more off-field changes.

Published by
Mitch Keating

Collingwood football boss Graham Wright is said to have served his last day with the Magpies, with the experienced general manager reportedly parting ways with the reigning premiers.

Wright has been on a sabbatical in Europe since March, with his leave away from his wide-ranging role confirmed last December following ongoing discussions with president Jeff Browne and coach Craig McRae.

The 56-year-old was initially expected to return down under in time for the club's anticipated finals series and off-season planning. However, Collingwood is now considered an unlikely chance to reach September with one game remaining.

His return to football won't come back through Olympic Park, with Wright stepping away from his role permanently.

According to 7 News' Mitch Cleary, Wright's expected departure has been made official amid interest from the AFL and links to a potential role with incoming expansion club Tasmania.

The highly rated administrator could be offered a role at AFL House. League HQ has undergone mass change over the last 18 months as it works through the early years of the Andrew Dillon era.

Tasmania are scheduled to join the AFL for the 2028 season, with key roles at the Devils needing to be filled at least 12 months out from their inauguration.

Wright's departure could lead to further role changes for Magpies stalwarts Brendon Bolton and Justin Leppitsch, who have increased their workloads in Wright's absence, coupled with the departure of ex-football manager Clare Pettyfor earlier this year.

Wright held a broad role at Collingwood, leading their football program while also taking the lead on list management along with the club's recruitment team.

The former Magpies player and Tasmanian product held key roles with Hawthorn as their recruitment and list lead from 2007 before stepping into the head of football role at Waverley, assisting the club through a golden period of four premierships.

Collingwood soon found success under Wright and McRae, with the pair pulling strings to help the Magpies to the 2023 premiership.

Published by
Mitch Keating