**Collingwood Players in Shock Over New Policies Implemented by Craig McRae**
*December 29, 2024 — Melbourne*
In a stunning turn of events, Collingwood Football Club players are reportedly reeling from a series of unexpected new policies introduced by head coach Craig McRae for the upcoming 2025 AFL season. The new measures, which have left many players feeling blindsided and unsettled, are said to be aimed at refining the club’s internal structure and team culture but have stirred up controversy within the playing group.
Sources close to the club have revealed that McRae, who led the Magpies to the 2023 Grand Final and a preliminary finals appearance in 2024, has introduced sweeping changes that focus on discipline, accountability, and even off-field behavior. Among the most talked-about new policies are stricter curfews, mandatory social media restrictions, and a renewed focus on “mental toughness,” which some players believe may be too demanding.
### Stricter Curfews and Increased Accountability
One of the most surprising aspects of McRae’s new approach is the imposition of stricter curfews, which limit players’ late-night activities during the off-season as well as throughout the year. While Collingwood has always maintained a relatively structured approach to team discipline, McRae’s policies now demand even more of the players’ time and attention, especially when it comes to off-field behavior.
An anonymous player, speaking to *The Age* under the condition of anonymity, described the curfews as “intense” and “overbearing.” “We’re adults, and we know how to manage ourselves, but now there’s this feeling like we’re being treated like kids. The curfew restrictions aren’t just for game days anymore—they’re all year round,” the player said.
### Mental Toughness and Media Access
Another policy that has raised eyebrows among the Collingwood ranks is the increased focus on “mental toughness” and “resilience under pressure.” Sources indicate that McRae has mandated multiple workshops and mental conditioning sessions for players, with an emphasis on coping with media scrutiny and public expectations.
In what has shocked many, McRae has also ordered tighter control on players’ media access, limiting interviews and public statements. Players are now required to clear any media appearance through the club’s new “communications protocol,” a move that has some believing the club is trying to control the narrative more rigidly.
### Players Speak Out
While some senior players have voiced their support for McRae’s vision, others are clearly frustrated. A few have expressed concerns that the policies may hinder the team’s natural camaraderie and disrupt their ability to form meaningful relationships with fans and the media.
“We’ve always prided ourselves on being a close-knit team, but these new rules feel like they’re trying to break down the bonds we’ve built over the years,” one player reportedly said. “It’s all about getting results on the field, but it feels like there’s less room for us to just be ourselves.”
Despite the backlash, McRae has publicly defended the new policies, stating that they are “a necessary step to ensuring the club’s sustained success.” In a statement released earlier this week, McRae said, “The AFL is a tough environment, and we need players who are mentally strong, disciplined, and focused. These changes are about creating an environment that holds everyone accountable, and I believe they will lead to success in the long run.”
### Fans React
The club’s supporters have also expressed mixed reactions. Some fans believe the changes are necessary for Collingwood to build on their recent successes and finally claim a premiership after falling short in 2023 and 2024. However, others have voiced concerns that the overregulation of players’ personal lives may create an environment of tension and resentment.
Collingwood’s board is reportedly monitoring the situation closely. While no official response has been made, the club is expected to address the controversy in the coming weeks as players return to training in preparation for the 2025 season.
### Conclusion
With the 2025 AFL season fast approaching, Collingwood faces a delicate balancing act. While the club’s recent success under McRae has been undeniable, the shock policies have thrown a new layer of uncertainty into the mix. As pre-season training kicks off, it remains to be seen how these new measures will affect team morale and whether they will deliver the success McRae is aiming for—or risk alienating the players who were once so integral to the club’s rise.
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