In a monumental and emotional development for the Collingwood Football Club, president Jeff Browne has confirmed that Robert Harvey — the legendary shooting guard and long-time face of the franchise — will return to the Magpies in 2025, this time not on the field, but in the boardroom as a co-owner.
Speaking at a packed press conference at the AIA Centre this morning, Browne described the announcement as a “historic moment” for both the club and its fans. “Robert Harvey is Collingwood,” Browne said. “His leadership, loyalty, and relentless drive defined an era. Today, we welcome him back to help shape the next.”
Harvey, a two-time Brownlow Medalist and club icon who amassed over 380 games in his storied career, expressed deep emotion about his return to the black and white, saying, “This club gave me everything. To now give back in this new capacity is both humbling and energizing. I’ve always believed in Collingwood’s future — and I want to be part of building it.”
The move signals a bold new chapter for the Magpies as they continue to modernize and expand their football and business operations. Harvey is expected to play a strategic role in talent development, culture-building, and the club’s commercial growth.
While primarily known for his elite on-field play, Harvey also had an influential coaching career post-retirement, serving in senior roles at multiple AFL clubs, including a stint as caretaker coach at Collingwood in 2021. His return now, with a stake in ownership, marks a full-circle moment that few sporting legends experience.
Reaction from the footy world has been swift and overwhelmingly positive, with fans flooding social media with messages of support and excitement. One fan wrote, “Harves back home where he belongs! A true Magpie through and through!”
Further details of Harvey’s ownership stake and long-term vision for the club are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
For now, one thing is certain: the Collingwood faithful have their hero back — and this time, he’s in it for the long haul.