Matthew Boyd, who has spent the last four years with Fremantle, is set to return to Victoria and rejoin Collingwood in a new coaching role starting in November. Boyd, a seasoned coach and former player, has decided to move back to Melbourne due to family reasons. His return marks a new chapter after leading Fremantle’s defensive strategies since 2021 under Dockers senior coach Justin Longmuir, a former colleague from his days at Collingwood.

Brendon Bolton, the football boss at Collingwood, welcomed Boyd back to the club, expressing excitement about his return. Bolton highlighted Boyd’s impressive career trajectory, noting that he began his coaching career with Collingwood and further honed his skills with Fremantle. “Matthew has enjoyed significant success both as a player and as an assistant coach. We’re thrilled to have him back and look forward to the contributions he will make,” Bolton said. He also extended a warm welcome to Boyd’s family, including his wife Kate and their three children, Chloe, Asher, and James.

Boyd’s return to Collingwood brings over 20 years of AFL experience. His career began in 2002 with the Western Bulldogs, where he played 292 games and was instrumental in the club’s 2016 premiership victory. During his tenure with the Bulldogs, Boyd earned three Best and Fairest awards and three All-Australian selections, and captained the team from 2011 to 2013.

In reflecting on his departure from Fremantle, Boyd expressed mixed emotions. “Leaving Fremantle has been a very tough decision for me and my family. We have cherished our time with the Dockers and will always have a special place in our hearts for the Freo family,” Boyd said. He conveyed his belief in Fremantle’s future success and affirmed that his family will continue to support the club from afar.

Boyd’s arrival at Collingwood coincides with some structural changes within the club’s football department. Both Bolton and Justin Leppitsch are stepping into more prominent roles as the team prepares for the upcoming season.