ETERNAL TRIBUTE! Collingwood FC Unveil Official Plans for Bronze Statue Honoring Nathan Buckley – “This is more than just a statue,” said Browne. “It’s a symbol of what Nathan Buckley means to the Collingwood Football Club. A leader, a warrior, and a Magpie through and through. His influence shaped a generation of players and inspired millions of fans………….
In a moment steeped in reverence, history, and unshakeable pride, Collingwood Football Club has officially announced plans to erect a bronze statue of club legend Nathan Buckley at the Magpies’ spiritual home, the AIA Centre. The statue, which is set to be unveiled early next year, will stand as a lasting tribute to one of the club’s most iconic figures—celebrating a career that redefined leadership, resilience, and loyalty.
At a press conference held earlier today, club president Jeff Browne described the decision as long overdue.
> “This is more than just a statue,” Browne declared to a packed media room. “It’s a symbol of what Nathan Buckley means to the Collingwood Football Club. A leader, a warrior, and a Magpie through and through. His influence shaped a generation of players and inspired millions of fans.”
The life-size statue, designed by renowned sculptor Lisette Barnes, will depict Buckley in a powerful on-field pose—arms outstretched mid-roar, embodying the passion and fierce determination that defined his playing and coaching career. It will be positioned at the main entrance to the AIA Centre, greeting fans and visitors as a proud sentinel of Collingwood’s modern history.
Buckley, who was present for the announcement, expressed deep humility and gratitude.
> “I’m honoured beyond words,” he said. “This club has been a massive part of my life—for over two decades I’ve worn the black and white with pride, and to now be memorialized in this way is truly humbling. This isn’t just for me; it’s for every teammate, coach, staff member, and supporter who walked this journey with me.”
Nathan Buckley’s journey with Collingwood began in 1994 when he joined the club after a standout year with the Brisbane Bears. From the outset, Buckley stood out as a generational talent. Known for his elite foot skills, relentless work ethic, and natural leadership, he won the Brownlow Medal in 2003, was a six-time Copeland Trophy winner, and captained the club from 1999 to 2007. Over 280 games, Buckley’s name became synonymous with excellence and integrity.
His transition into coaching was equally defining. Taking over as senior coach in 2012, Buckley led Collingwood through a period of transformation, culminating in a fairy-tale run to the 2018 Grand Final. Though the ultimate prize narrowly escaped the club’s grasp that year, Buckley’s leadership and resilience earned widespread admiration. He stepped down in 2021, leaving a lasting legacy not just of results, but of unwavering commitment to the Collingwood ethos.
Current Collingwood captain Darcy Moore reflected on Buckley’s influence on today’s generation.
> “Bucks was the ultimate role model. As a coach, he challenged us to be better men as well as better footballers. To have him cast in bronze is fitting. He is, and always will be, part of the soul of this club.”
The statue announcement is part of Collingwood’s broader initiative to celebrate and preserve its heritage. The club also plans to launch a digital archive of Buckley’s greatest moments, allowing fans to relive the highlights of his career, from match-winning goals to rousing speeches.
The statue is expected to be unveiled in March 2026, just before the start of the AFL season. Club officials are working closely with the AFL and the City of Melbourne to ensure the unveiling becomes a major event, likely to draw thousands of supporters.
For Collingwood fans, the statue will not only serve as a tribute to an individual but as a monument to everything Nathan Buckley represents: pride, passion, and the unyielding pursuit of greatness.
The Magpie Army wouldn’t have it any other way.
