Craig McRae, the head coach of the Collingwood Football Club, has been instrumental in leading the team to remarkable success in recent years. His innovative coaching style, emphasis on team culture, and strategic acumen have not only revitalized the club but have also made him a compelling subject for sports documentaries. For those interested in delving deeper into McRae’s coaching journey and philosophy, the following documentaries offer insightful perspectives:ABC News
1. “Take the Steps” (2024)
“Take the Steps” is a comprehensive documentary that chronicles Collingwood’s triumphant 2023 AFL season, culminating in their premiership victory. Produced by the Collingwood Football Club in collaboration with AFL Studios, the film provides an intimate look into the team’s dynamics, challenges, and milestones throughout the season.sportrecentnews.co.uk+8Wikipedia+8ZeroHanger+8
The documentary centers around four pivotal figures:ZeroHanger+6sportrecentnews.co.uk+6Collingwood FC+6
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Craig McRae: In his second year as senior coach, McRae’s process-driven approach and leadership are highlighted as he guides the team toward ultimate success.Sport Today+3sportrecentnews.co.uk+3YouTube+3
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Darcy Moore: Serving as captain, Moore strives to overcome the legacy of his father, Peter Moore, who lost four grand finals with Collingwood, as he attempts to lift the Grand Final curse on his family.ZeroHanger+1sportrecentnews.co.uk+1ZeroHanger+1
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Scott Pendlebury: At 35, and nearing the end of his illustrious career, Pendlebury seeks to secure one more premiership, solidifying his status as one of the club’s greatest players.YouTube+2sportrecentnews.co.uk+2ZeroHanger+2
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Nick Daicos: A second-year superstar, Daicos battles to return from a significant injury, racing against time to get back on the field.Collingwood FC+3sportrecentnews.co.uk+3ZeroHanger+3
The title, “Take the Steps,” is inspired by a motivational phrase used throughout the successful 2023 premiership campaign. This mantra was visually represented by McRae’s practice of spray-painting a step on a ladder after each victory, symbolizing the team’s progress toward their ultimate goal. This ritual not only motivated the players but also fostered a sense of unity and purpose within the team. ABC News+8sportrecentnews.co.uk+8ZeroHanger+8Collingwood FC
Released exclusively through Hoyts cinemas, the documentary premiered on February 28, 2024, at the Melbourne Central location. It offers fans and sports enthusiasts an immersive experience, combining candid interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and game-day highlights. The film has been praised for its authentic portrayal of the team’s journey and the personal stories of its key figures. YouTube+4Wikipedia+4Collingwood FC+4
For a glimpse into the documentary, you can watch the official teaser released by the Collingwood Football Club:
2. Upcoming Netflix Series on Collingwood Football Club
In addition to “Take the Steps,” there is an upcoming documentary series slated for release on Netflix that will delve into the rich history and recent resurgence of the Collingwood Football Club. While specific details about the series are still under wraps, it is expected to feature in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, providing viewers with a comprehensive understanding of the club’s evolution and McRae’s pivotal role in its recent achievements. Sport Today
This series aims to capture the essence of Collingwood’s culture, the challenges faced by the team, and the strategic decisions that have propelled them back to prominence in the AFL. By focusing on both historical context and contemporary developments, the documentary promises to offer a balanced and insightful perspective on the club’s journey.
3. “The Story Behind the ‘Take the Steps’ Theme”
For those interested in a more focused exploration of McRae’s coaching philosophy, the Collingwood Football Club released a teaser titled “The Story Behind the ‘Take the Steps’ Theme.” In this short feature, McRae details the origins and significance of the 2023 season’s theme, providing insights into the motivational strategies employed to inspire the team. Collingwood FC
This teaser offers a unique glimpse into the mindset and methodologies of McRae, showcasing how his leadership has been instrumental in shaping the team’s culture and performance. It’s a valuable resource for fans and aspiring coaches alike, highlighting the importance of cohesive team narratives and symbolic gestures in building a winning mentality.
Conclusion
Craig McRae’s tenure as head coach of the Collingwood Football Club has been marked by strategic innovation, emotional intelligence, and a deep commitment to fostering a winning culture. The documentaries and features highlighted above provide comprehensive insights into his coaching journey, the team’s dynamics, and the strategies that have led to their recent successes. Whether you’re a die-hard Collingwood supporter, a student of sports leadership, or simply a fan of compelling human stories, these documentaries offer valuable perspectives on the art of coaching and team building.
By engaging with these films, viewers can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of professional sports, the importance of leadership, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines champions like Craig McRae and the Collingwood Football Club.