Collingwood AFLW coach Sam Wright has admitted he has “no energy left” after the Magpies ended a dismal 2026 season with one win, as an external review of the club’s women’s programme looms.
Collingwood were beaten 4.14 (38) to 4.7 (31) by Essendon at Windy Hill on Sunday, with the Bombers claiming their second victory of the campaign and sending departing coach Natalie Wood off with a win.
The Magpies finished above St Kilda on percentage, avoiding the wooden spoon, but their season has intensified uncertainty around the programme. Wright is leaving after three years in charge.
“I just really honest with the girls [pre-match], I’ve got no energy left,” Wright said after the match. “I think I’ve given everything that I can to the club and the girls over the last three years. The win, loss [ratio] takes its toll.
“But what I’m really proud of is that I have given it everything.”
Wright said he had spent long drives home considering what more he could do to improve the team, but had reached the point where he had “probably run out of suggestions”.
“Whenever you hit that space … you’ve got to look at the priorities in your life,” he said. “My priority is family at the moment, but the club’s been nothing but supportive, and it [leaving] comes with it some guilt with where the club’s at.
“But I think the girls understand that I’ve given everything that I have.”
Collingwood AFLW review to involve external expert
Collingwood announced last week that an “independent external expert” would be involved in a review of its women’s programme, despite chief executive Craig Kelly saying a fortnight earlier that the club did not need an independent review.
The club has not set a timeframe for the process. It follows the departure of captain Ruby Schleicher and concerns from several senior players about the programme’s lack of improvement and direction.
Asked whether he had pushed for a review, Wright said he could not discuss specifics but trusted Collingwood’s leadership.
“I think we all know we need to improve,” he said.
Essendon also plan to broaden the scope of their annual internal AFLW review, although the club have not announced an independent external review.
Wood, who was not offered a new contract, said she still had more to give despite her departure.
“The club’s made the decision that it’s time for a fresh start, and I fully respect that,” she said. “I’m still full of energy, but yeah, I’ll rest and recuperate, and you know, see if there’s any opportunities that lie ahead.”
Essendon made the stronger start, with Emily Gough and Mia Busch helping the Bombers establish control as Collingwood went goalless in the opening quarter. Tarni White and Ash Centra eventually put the Magpies on the scoreboard.
Bonnie Toogood’s goal in the third quarter restored Essendon’s advantage, but Collingwood rallied late. A goal from Irish debutant Ellie Brady, following a pass from captain Lucy Cronin, reduced the margin to nine points with 10 minutes remaining.
Busch responded for the Bombers before Imogen Trengove converted a free kick and 50-metre penalty to bring Collingwood back within reach. Essendon held firm through a series of crucial intercepts and tackles.
The win also marked the final appearance of veteran Sophie Alexander, who retired from the AFLW after 85 games. Collingwood players later gathered for a guard of honour for retiring ruck Sabrina Frederick.
“We did this for her, and it has been an honour to be coached by her,” Essendon midfielder Madison Prespakis said of Wood.
